Zimbabwe’s academic institutions have been called upon to take a more active role in translating agricultural research into practical solutions that directly benefit farmers and the wider agricultural sector. With agriculture contributing between 11 to 18 percent of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and providing employment for 60 to 70 percent of the population, the need for academic-driven innovation has never been more urgent.
Speaking in an interview, Professor Obert Jiri, the Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, emphasized the importance of turning research findings into field-ready solutions.
“Innovation developed through agricultural research should be tested and adapted, with farmers actively involved in the process. This involves bridging the gap between research findings and real-world application through effective knowledge translation and implementation strategies,” said Prof Jiri.
He stressed that research, no matter how valuable, remains ineffective if it stays confined within academic journals and laboratory walls. “Agricultural research can be incredibly valuable, but it is all about making sure that research does not stay stuck in the lab or academia—it needs to be accessible, practical, and usable by the farmers who can directly benefit from it,” he added.
Prof Jiri highlighted the pivotal role academic and research institutions play in advancing agricultural development and addressing the country’s pressing challenges such as food insecurity and climate change. Zimbabwe’s agricultural sector has felt the harsh impacts of climate change, including rising temperatures, unpredictable rainfall patterns, and an increase in the frequency and severity of droughts and floods.
“These changes lead to reduced crop yields, food insecurity, and water scarcity, affecting the livelihoods of many Zimbabweans who rely on agriculture,” Prof Jiri explained.
He pointed to the ongoing collaboration between research institutions and the government as a positive step towards developing climate-smart agricultural solutions. Through innovation hubs and guided by the Heritage-Based Education 5.0 model, institutions are increasingly engaging in projects that promote conservation agriculture, the cultivation of drought-resistant crops, and the use of water-efficient irrigation systems.
“These partnerships are vital for helping farmers adopt sustainable agricultural practices that build resilience to climate shocks and ensure long-term food security,” Prof Jiri said.
The government remains committed to working closely with universities, colleges, and research centres to ensure that agricultural innovations not only stay relevant but also reach the farmers who need them most. By translating research into action, Zimbabwe aims to strengthen its agricultural sector and safeguard the livelihoods of millions who depend on farming for survival.
