By Julius Idrissa Manganda
Russia has generously donated 25,000 metric tons of wheat and 23,000 metric tons of fertilizer to assist the government of Zimbabwe in addressing its pressing agricultural and food security needs.
The donation, symbolizing a strong bond between the two nations, was formally received by President Dr. Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa at the Grain Marketing Board (GMB) depot in Harare.
The consignment was handed over by ambassador of the Russian to Zimbabwe, Nikolai Vladimirovich Krasilnikov.
This substantial contribution aims to mitigate the ongoing food shortages in Zimbabwe while simultaneously bolstering agricultural production in the region.
Amidst Zimbabwe’s struggles with food insecurity and economic challenges during this drought season, the donation from Russia serves as a timely and significant relief.
Expressing gratitude, President Mnangagwa conveyed his appreciation to his Russian counterpart, President Vladimir Putin, for the generous assistance. He also extended congratulations to President Putin on his recent re-election victory.
“I express my deep gratitude to my dear brother, the President of the Russian Federation, His Excellency Vladimir Putin, for the generous and timely donation. Allow me, by the same token, to take this opportunity to heartily congratulate His Excellency Vladimir Putin for his resounding victory in the just-ended elections,” remarked the Zimbabwe president.
Zimbabwe’s longstanding alliance with Russia, rooted in historical solidarity dating back to the liberation struggle era, underscores the significance of this humanitarian gesture.
Despite facing shared challenges such as illegal sanctions imposed by the West, Zimbabwe and Russia have maintained a steadfast partnership over the years.
“Throughout the 23 years of sanctions, the Russian Federation has been a true, trusted, and dependable ally of the people of Zimbabwe,” emphasized president Mnangagwa.
President Mnangagwa emphasized the importance of collaborative research, innovation, and smart agriculture technologies in advancing agricultural practices in the country.
“Collaborative research, innovation, and development, as well as the use of smart agriculture technologies, must drive efforts towards the introduction of new and improved agricultural practices,” stated Pr Mnangagwa.
Furthermore, the Zimbabwean government is strategically pivoting towards a wheat-based food security strategy in response to climate change and the prevailing El-Nino induced drought conditions.
“In view of climate change and the current El-Nino induced drought, my Government has taken a deliberate policy position to adopt a wheat-based food security intervention now and into the future,” affirmed president Mnangagwa.
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The fertilizer consignment, which consisted of potash and NPKS, was provided by Uralchem Group, with the United Nations World Food Programme facilitating the delivery. The Russian chemical manufacturer said it has now sent five humanitarian shipments to African states, with the aim of supporting farming and easing food shortages on the continent.
