Online Reporter
Agriculture Reporter
MORE than 350 smallholder farmers in Manicaland, Masvingo and Matabeleland South are set to access global markets through a new initiative linking irrigation schemes with private sector buyers, financiers and technology providers.
The initiative, being supported by the Government, the Green Climate Fund and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), is part of the seven-year Climate Resilience Livelihoods (CRL) project, which supports over 2,3 million people to adapt to climate change.
In a statement, Climate Resilience Livelihoods project manager Mr Rungano Benza said the initiative was enabling farmers in Manicaland, Masvingo and Matabeleland South to access new markets beyond local trade, increase their earnings and strengthen their ability to withstand climate challenges.
The programme brings together business-to-farmer dialogues, where buyers and financiers explore contract farming and value chain opportunities, with hands-on field days showcasing cutting-edge technologies like solar-powered irrigation, drip systems and sustainable soil and water conservation practices.
“These dialogues are a vital step in connecting smallholder irrigation farmers with private sector buyers, financial institutions and input suppliers,” he said.
“By linking production with profitable markets, we are ensuring that farmers can sustainably increase yields, incomes and resilience.
“With irrigation as a cornerstone of climate-smart agriculture, the programme features private sector dialogues and farmer learning days to strengthen market linkages, showcase innovative technologies and promote sustainable practices.”
Beyond the farms, the UNDP said the programme would foster stronger value chain integration, create jobs, and establish long-term business partnerships that contribute to resilient livelihoods and inclusive economic growth.
Mr Benza said gender equity was central, with deliberate efforts to ensure women farmers are empowered to benefit from new market opportunities.
“This initiative directly supports Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030 and the National Development Strategy 1 by strengthening agricultural productivity, building resilient livelihoods and fostering inclusive growth,” he said.
“It also advances progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those focused on food security, gender equality and climate action.”
