IN an effort to revitalise Zimbabwe’s agricultural sector and restore food self-sufficiency, China has joined forces with the government, focusing on capacity building, innovation, and technical assistance.
As part of this initiative, seven leading Chinese agricultural experts have been embedded into Zimbabwe’s Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water, and Rural Development to provide the technical expertise needed to boost the country’s food security and agricultural productivity.
In addition, Zimbabwean agricultural officials stand to benefit from 12-day tours of China, designed to provide them with firsthand experience of China’s agricultural advancements, which can be adapted and implemented in the country to further enhance the nation's agricultural infrastructure.
This is part of a three-year technical assistance programme under a cooperation agreement between the People’s Republic of China and Zimbabwe, a top Chinese official has said.
“By sharing China’s advanced agricultural practices and technologies, we aim to contribute to the sustainable development of Zimbabwe’s agricultural sector and to assist in rebuilding its agricultural sector and achieve food self-sufficiency,” Zhao Ke, the leader of the Chinese Agricultural Experts, said.
He made these remarks during an interview at the Chinhoyi Agricultural Show in Mashonaland West Province, where the Chinese experts are showcasing their work and technologies suited for Zimbabwe’s smallholder farmers.
“This exhibition is not just about showcasing our work; it’s about reinforcing the strong partnership between our two countries," he said.
"We believe that by continuing to work together, we can achieve great things for Zimbabwe’s agriculture and its people."
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Ke said Chinese experts have been deeply involved in various aspects of Zimbabwe’s agricultural development, including policy development, where they have been working closely with Zimbabwean authorities to provide tailored policy recommendations.
“These policies are designed to restore agricultural production and ensure that Zimbabwe can meet its food security goals,” he said.
Beyond policy work, the team has been hands-on in delivering technical assistance through the creation of agricultural demonstration villages, where cutting-edge agricultural techniques are introduced to local farmers and agricultural experts.
“We are here to ensure that the knowledge we share is practical and can be applied by Zimbabwean farmers to improve their yields,” Ke said.
Capacity building and training of local agricultural professionals is a critical component of the project.
“We are focused on ensuring that the knowledge transfer is comprehensive and sustainable. By training officials, technicians, and farmers, we’re investing in the future of Zimbabwe’s agriculture,” he noted.
The collaboration between China and Zimbabwe is a testament to what international partnerships can achieve in fostering sustainable development and agricultural innovation, he said.
