Chronicle Editor
Harare Bureau
The Zimbabwe Farmers’ Union has distanced itself from the Federation of Farmers’ Unions (FOFU) that was launched end of September.
The federation is the merger of all farmers unions including Commercial Farmers’ Union, Zimbabwe Commercial Farmers’ Union and the Zimbabwe National Farmers’ Union. The unions came together to effectively organise farmers and build consensus among them on the required policy to take agriculture forward in Zimbabwe. Other objectives of the FOFU included a unified farmer representation by strengthening the voice of all farmers, improving their ability to advocate and lobby for favourable laws, regulations and policies among others.
ZFU executive director Mr Paul Zakariya yesterday said the union had not made a decision on whether to join or not join the federation.
He said ZFU was still carrying out consultations at district and provincial level up to the national level of which there will be a referendum before a decision is taken. “ZFU is not yet a member of the Federation of Farmers’ Unions that was launched on September 21 in Harare. The union is still consulting with its members on this matter and once the consultation process which will wind up with a referendum is over, a position will then be communicated,” he said.
ZFU held its annual congress early September.
“ZFU is therefore not currently participating in any FOFU meetings, programs and activities.
Our members want to understand the objectives of the federation and how they will benefit from being part of it. There is a need for the organisation to consult widely with its members. No single individual can make decisions that shift focus and governance system of the organisation. This is clearly stated in the union’s constitution,” he said.
Online Reporter