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Mutsawashe Mashandure Herald Correspondent
Another 50 computers have been handed over to the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water, and Rural Development to allow precise management of irrigation, continuous collection and use of more accurate data in farming operations.
Speaking during the handover ceremony in Harare yesterday, Minister of Information and Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services Dr Tatenda Mavetera said to achieve true digital transformation within the agricultural sector, it was essential for ministries to collaborate seamlessly towards shared goals.
“ICT improves productivity by enabling precision farming techniques that optimise resource use such as water use or fertiliser distribution, accurately tailored to specific crop requirements”, Minister Mavetera said.
Incorporating smart irrigation systems enhances water management efficiency by precisely delivering water where it is needed most, while minimising waste.
This technology-driven approach reduces both water consumption and costs, making agriculture more sustainable in the face of increasing climate change-related challenges.
ICT facilitated the collection and analysis of agricultural data, allowing farmers to make informed decisions regarding crop selection, disease prevention strategies, and pest management. By leveraging technology to manage data effectively, Dr Mavetera said farmers can proactively address issues that may arise during their farming operations.
“By harnessing tech solutions, we can revolutionise farming practices while addressing various challenges faced by farmers across Zimbabwe,” she noted.
“By combining efforts and expertise from both ministries, we can develop joint initiatives that leverage technology effectively in addressing key challenges faced by our farmers. Such collaboration could encompass initiatives like training programmes aimed at equipping farmers with the necessary digital literacy skills or establishing partnerships with private enterprises specialising in agri-tech solutions,” she said.
Minister Mavetera noted that President Mnangagwa has identified agriculture and ICTs as key pillars to the attainment of Vision 2030.
“Our President has gone further and taken the lead in fusing agriculture and ICTs on the African continent, as evidenced by Zimbabwe being the flagship nation for the continental Agritech Blueprint within the Smart Africa Alliance.
“The Agritech Blueprint and Vision 2030 provide a roadmap for transforming Zimbabwe’s agricultural sector into a modernised industry that embraces cutting-edge technology within the agricultural sector. It is essential for ministries to collaborate seamlessly towards shared goals.
“The synergy between the two ministries is crucial for successfully implementing technological advancements across all aspects of farming operations,” she said.
The Minister urged all the stakeholders to embrace the power of ICT in agriculture towards attainment of the Vision 2030.
“I urge all stakeholders, including government officials, agricultural experts, farmers, and technology innovators, to embrace and harness the power of ICT in agriculture,” the Minister said.
“Let us work together towards realising President ED Mnangagwa vision for a modernised agricultural sector that paves the way for a digital economy, sustainable development, food security, rural development, and improved livelihoods for our farmers and nation. It is up to us to build a Zimbabwe that we can all be proud of. Nyika Inovakwa Nevene Vayo,” she added.
Speaking at the same event, the Minister of Agriculture Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water, and Rural Development DR Anxious Masuka valued the laptops.
“With the use of computers now, it makes our lives easier. By using location, we can now trace our animals electronically, know the level of dams, and know the texture of our soil,” he said.
Online Reporter