Zimbabwean Farmers Urged to Embrace Technology for Food Security and Growth

Farmers in Zimbabwe have been challenged to transform agriculture into a technology-driven industry to boost national food and nutrition security, maximise investment returns, and support the country’s Vision 2030 goals. The call came from Information and Communication Technology and Courier Services Minister Tatenda Mavetera at the inaugural Federation of Young Farmers Clubs in Zimbabwe (FYFCZ) annual conference in Harare.

The event ran under the theme: “Harnessing the Youth Dividend, Coordinating Agricultural Value Chains and Information Communication Technologies (ICTs) for Young Farmer Establishment and Growth.” FYFCZ is a network of innovative young farmers and agribusiness entrepreneurs focused on making agriculture a viable and lucrative career for future generations.

Minister Mavetera, a founding trustee of FYFCZ, praised the new generation of farmers for claiming their place in the sector. She emphasised the government’s commitment to building a modern green agricultural economy by 2030 and highlighted the role of ICT and artificial intelligence in driving this transformation.

Farmers were urged to adopt precision or smart farming, which uses technology and data analysis to optimise agricultural practices. The minister also promoted the use of drones for chemical spraying and fertilisation, noting that the government is regulating this technology for full-scale deployment.

The Presidential Internet Scheme, designed to deliver high-speed broadband to all 2 400 administrative wards in Zimbabwe, was highlighted as a key enabler. Minister Mavetera stated that every farm should have connectivity and that Agricultural Business Advisory Officers (ABAO) would bridge research and field implementation. She stressed the importance of integrating climate change awareness and digital skills throughout the production value chain, from input procurement to market sales and payments.

FYFCZ president Tinashe Muchedzi said the organisation supports a green-based economy built on digitally skilled young farmers. He highlighted opportunities for farmers, including contract farming, irrigation and borehole facilities, tractor hire, start-up financing, access to land, and domestic and export markets.

Muchedzi emphasised responsible farming practices, soil protection, and contribution to a green Zimbabwe, Africa, and world. He underlined ICT’s role in improving decision-making, crop and livestock management, risk management, e-commerce, supply chain optimisation, traceability, market access, and overall livelihoods.

The conference reinforced that technology adoption and sustainable practices are critical to transforming Zimbabwe’s agricultural sector, ensuring food security, and fostering long-term economic growth.