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Elton Manguwo
GOVERNMENT must regularly provide farmers with training and development opportunities to keep them abreast with technological revolution taking place in the agriculture industry, an expert has urged.
Zimbabwe Farmers Union (ZFU) secretary general, Mr Paul Zakariya told Government officials and players in the agriculture sector attending a workshop on planning for the 2024/25 farming season in Harare recently that modern farming techniques and regular trainings were crucial for the success and sustainability of farming operations.
The workshop was titled: ‘Unpacking the 2024/2025 summer plan.’
Mr Zakariya said training farmers was essential to compliment extension services’ efforts.
“If farmers are trained and receive extension services, they unlock a certain level of expertise, which is important for development of farming operations,” he said.
The ZFU is currently seized with ensuring that Zimbabwean farmers are equipped with the knowledge and skills required to adapt to the ever-evolving farming environment to maintain their competitiveness.
“As the agricultural sector continues to advance, we recognise the need for farmers to have access to the necessary training and resources to keep pace with the changing agriculture landscape,” said Mr Zakariya.
His appeal comes as the agriculture industry is reported to be on a growth and transformative trajectory, underscoring the importance of arming farmers with the technical knowhow to capitalise on these positive trends.
“Against the backdrop of this positive outlook, training of farmers enables them to fully capitalise on the emerging opportunities and try out different crops,” said Mr Zakariya underlining how by providing access to modern farming techniques and methods, the Government can empower the farming community to enhance their productivity, efficiency and overall competitiveness.
Mr Zakariya hinted that their call for farmers to be supported was an acknowledgement of the importance of investing in the professional development and capacity-building of the country’s agricultural workforce. The success of farming has far-reaching implications for food security, economic growth and rural development.
“This proactive approach, if implemented, has the potential to propel industry forward and solidify its position as a key driver of the country’s economic growth and transformation,” said Mr Zakariya.
Notably, the Government has been making strides in this direction, tasking agricultural colleges with spearheading initiatives aimed at promoting rural industrialisation and uplifting the livelihoods of local communities.
One of the key focus areas of these college-led efforts is equipping farmers with the latest skills, techniques and technologies in modern agriculture. Through hands-on training, workshops and demonstration projects are meant to capacitate farmers with production and commercial knowledge.
Online Reporter