ZIMTRADE says the Eagles' Nest Agri-Challenge, launched recently, is set to revolutionise Zimbabwe's agricultural landscape by equipping farmers with cutting-edge technologies.
This new initiative, supported by the Embassy of the Netherlands in Zimbabwe, builds on the achievements of the broader Eagles’ Nest programme, which has been instrumental in nurturing young entrepreneurs and integrating them into mainstream export activities.
"The Agri-Challenge is designed to cultivate an export culture among young people in farming, equipping them with the tools to transform their agribusinesses into export-ready enterprises," ZimTrade said.
"The Eagles’ Nest Agri-Challenge empowers youth-led agricultural enterprises by providing technical support, training, and mentorship.
"Through this programme, young agripreneurs will develop skills in sustainable farming practices, market access, and export strategies, unlocking their potential as key drivers of economic growth."
The organisation indicated that the initiative aligns with national policies that emphasise youth participation in economic activities for sustainable livelihoods.
"Riding on the success of the Eagles’ Nest Youth Export Incubation Programme, the Agri-Challenge highlights the advantages of sector-specific editions," it said.
"Tailoring its approach to agriculture, the programme addresses the unique challenges and opportunities within the sector, ensuring participants receive targeted support.
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"A major focus of the challenge is sustainable agriculture, which encourages eco-friendly farming practices that ensure long-term productivity and soil health."
Participants will be trained in organic farming techniques, soil conservation strategies, and environmentally friendly pest control methods.
This approach, ZimTrade noted, aims to foster sustainability within agricultural operations, helping businesses thrive while minimising their environmental impact.
Another core element of the Eagles' Nest Agri-Challenge is the integration of agri-tech and innovation.
"The programme will introduce participants to cutting-edge technologies such as precision farming, smart irrigation, and data analytics to enhance farming efficiency and productivity," it said.
"Participants will learn to use AI-driven predictive analytics for crop management and explore the potential of automated farming equipment to optimise resource usage and minimise waste."
The Challenge also highlights the importance of value addition and agro-processing, guiding agripreneurs on how to transform raw agricultural products into high-value goods.
Training will cover essential skills like food preservation, packaging, branding, and the development of market-ready agro-products.
This will enable participants to increase the profitability of their businesses and appeal to broader markets, both locally and internationally.
In addition to these areas, the programme will address agribusiness and market linkages, helping participants understand supply chain dynamics, access new markets, and build profitable business models.
The Challenge will provide valuable insights into market research, export opportunities, and supply chain logistics, ensuring that participants are equipped to create sustainable and scalable businesses.
The Eagles' Nest Agri-Challenge will also focus on climate resilience and food security, equipping participants with strategies to mitigate climate risks and enhance food production.
The organisation said training will cover methods for cultivating drought-resistant crops, utilising water-efficient farming techniques, and preparing for climate-related disasters, ensuring that agripreneurs are ready to adapt to changing conditions and secure a consistent food supply for growing populations.
