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Precious Manomano, Herald Reporter
The friendship between Zimbabwe and Japan continues to grow, with the Asian country yesterday handing over a donation of fertilisers worth US $4,7 million.
The fertiliser donation is comprised of 3 860 tonnes of Ammonium Nitrate and 1 940 tonnes of Compound D, which is expected to assist over 100 000 small-scale farmers who are part of the 3,5 million beneficiaries of the Pfumvudza/Intwasa programme.
Speaking during the handover ceremony in Harare yesterday, Japan’s Ambassador to Zimbabwe Mr Shinichi Yamanaka said they wish to support small-scale farmers and ensure national food security.
“Zimbabwe is facing an El Nino-induced drought and higher prices of imported fertiliser amid the global economic turmoil because of the Eastern Europe conflict,” he said.
“I hope that all the fertiliser will be fairly distributed so that the small-scale farmers located even in remote areas can also receive fertilisers.
“This will allow them to remain productive and contribute to food security in their communities and across the nation while at the same time improving their livelihoods.”
The support resonates well with the Government’s efforts to enhance agricultural productivity and ensure communities sustain themselves.
Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development Deputy Minister Vangelis Haritatos said the donation would go a long way in boosting yields.
“Your commitment to supporting agricultural development in Zimbabwe not only demonstrates your generosity, but also reflects a profound understanding of the vital role that agriculture plays in our economy and community well-being,” he said. “Your efforts in strengthening the ties between our nations underscore the importance of international partnerships in addressing common challenges, particularly in the field of food security.”
Deputy Minister Haritatos said the donation would improve the supply of agro-based inputs into industrial sectors leading to improved export performance for agricultural value chains.
He also urged wheat farmers to implement good agronomic practices to enhance productivity.
This fertiliser donation will provide farmers with the necessary tools to enhance productivity, improve livelihoods, and contribute to the food security of the nation.
Government is committed to working with farmers as they take strides toward a more prosperous future.
In separate interviews yesterday, farmers welcomed the donation saying it had come at the correct time as they have started preparing their fields for the 2024/2025 summer cropping season.
Recently, Japan provided food assistance worth US$1,4 million through the World Food Programme in response to Zimbabwe’s request for food support following poor harvests due to the El Nino phenomenon.
Online Reporter