Prof Obert Jiri-Permanant Secretary for Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development
“The government commends the resilience and industriousness of young farmers in mitigating the impacts of the El Niño-induced drought,”
Prof Obert Jiri
By Donald Chakamanga
In a bold move to fortify Zimbabwe’s food security, young farmers have pledged to cultivate over 10,000 hectares of wheat during the forthcoming winter season, constituting a significant 10% of the national target.
Speaking at the 2024 Federation of Young Farmers’ Clubs in Zimbabwe (FYFCZ) belated Independence Dinner in Harare, the Secretary for Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water, and Rural Development, Prof Obert Jiri, lauded the proactive stance of young farmers in adopting technology and climate-smart best practices.
“The government commends the resilience and industriousness of young farmers in mitigating the impacts of the El Niño-induced drought,” stated Prof. Jiri, emphasizing the critical role played by youth in safeguarding the nation’s food security.
Moreover, Prof. Jiri praised the launch of the FYCZ digital platform, poised to recruit over 20,000 young individuals into agriculture this year.
To bolster these initiatives, the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water, and Rural Development has allocated resources to support startups, particularly focusing on maize production, wheat, and small grains, thereby reducing Zimbabwe’s reliance on costly imports.
In an impassioned plea, Prof. Jiri urged young farmers to persevere in their commitment to ensuring “food security everywhere, every day.”
This call to action underscores the imperative of sustained efforts in securing Zimbabwe’s agricultural future amidst global uncertainty.