FAO and Zimbabwe Partner to Transform Agriculture Towards Food Security and Economic Resilience by 2030
Zimbabwe is embarking on an ambitious journey to revolutionise its agricultural sector, with robust support from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). The partnership aims to set a bold vision for achieving food security and economic resilience by 2030 through sustainable, resilient, and inclusive agri-food systems.
Louis Muhigirwa, Deputy FAO Representative in Zimbabwe, emphasised the timeliness and significance of this initiative, stating, “We cannot have a better opportunity to discuss the importance of sustainable, resilient and inclusive agri-food systems.” This transformative approach is set against a backdrop of global challenges including climate change, economic instability, and geopolitical tensions that impact food production and supply chains.
Central to Zimbabwe’s strategy is the government’s commitment to positioning agriculture as a key economic catalyst. Agnes Mugova, Director of Strategic Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation at the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development (MLAFWRD), underscored this priority: “Agriculture is the key driver for attaining Vision 2030,” highlighting the sector’s pivotal role in national development and poverty reduction.
The Zimbabwe Agriculture Food Systems Transformation Strategy, approved in 2020, encompasses several innovative components designed to modernise farming practices, improve input access, and build climate change resilience across rural communities. It integrates approaches to enhance productivity while safeguarding natural resources and promoting equitable participation of women and youth — crucial elements for inclusive growth in line with Zimbabwe’s National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1).
FFA Explainer Box: Agri-Food Systems
Agri-food systems describe the interconnected processes of food production, processing, distribution, consumption, and waste management, essential for ensuring sustainable nutrition and livelihoods.
FAO’s support includes technical assistance, capacity building, and policy advice to facilitate the adoption of climate-smart agriculture, digital technologies, and sustainable land management. The initiative also prioritises strengthening market linkages to ensure smallholder farmers can access fair prices and new value chains.
Several pilot projects are underway demonstrating effective water management, drought-resistant crop varieties, and integrated pest management — innovations designed to build resilience against climatic shocks. These pilots also serve as platforms to empower women and youth entrepreneurs in agriculture, fostering greater inclusivity and job creation.
The partnership stresses the importance of evidence-based planning, with improved data collection and monitoring systems enabling adaptive management of food systems. This will support Zimbabwe’s government decision-makers in crafting policies that are locally relevant and aligned with continental goals such as the African Union’s Agenda 2063.
In conclusion, the collaboration between FAO and Zimbabwe embodies a forward-looking blueprint for agricultural transformation. By combining government leadership, international expertise, and local engagement, the initiative aspires to create a food system that is productive, resilient, inclusive, and sustainable — setting Zimbabwe firmly on course to meet its Vision 2030 goals and improve the lives of millions across the country.
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