By Shephard Majengeta
AS Zimbabwe grapples with the challenges posed by the El Niño-induced droughts, there arises a critical opportunity to mitigate these effects and propel the nation towards sustainable development.
The upcoming winter cropping season presents a pivotal moment to leverage irrigation technologies and strategic agricultural practices, thereby fortifying the agricultural sector and accelerating progress towards the goals outlined in Vision 2030.
One of Zimbabwe’s greatest assets lies in its abundant water resources, boasting the largest water body in sub-Saharan Africa.
It is imperative that we harness this resource to its fullest potential, especially in the face of erratic rainfall patterns exacerbated by climate change. By embracing irrigation techniques, we can counteract the adverse impacts of droughts and ensure a consistent supply of water for crop cultivation throughout the year.
The indigenously owned vast arable lands across Zimbabwe, coupled with the presence of ARDA estates strategically located nationwide, offer a fertile ground for implementing concentrated and controlled agricultural production.
These estates can serve as hubs of innovation, where modern irrigation systems, sustainable farming practices, and agro-processing facilities converge to maximise productivity and economic growth.
Embracing irrigation not only buffers against climate-related risks but also unlocks new opportunities for diversification and value addition within the agricultural value chain.
From high-value crops to livestock production, irrigation empowers farmers to expand their output, enhance food security and tap into lucrative markets both domestically and internationally.
The adoption of irrigation technologies aligns seamlessly with the broader vision of sustainable development outlined in Vision 2030.
By optimising water use efficiency, minimising post-harvest losses and promoting environmentally friendly practices, Zimbabwe can position itself as a regional leader in agricultural resilience and resource management.
However, success in irrigation-based agriculture requires a comprehensive approach that integrates infrastructure development, capacity building and policy support.
And already the Government has and continues to make all efforts to ensure that the country’s irrigation system is in tandem with the developments and demands of the 21st Century.
Investments in modern irrigation infrastructure, such as drip irrigation systems and water storage facilities, are crucial for maximising water utilisation and minimising wastage.
Education and training programmes should be prioritised to equip farmers with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively manage irrigation systems, implement best practices and adapt to changing climatic conditions.
This includes promoting climate-smart agriculture techniques that enhance resilience and sustainability across the agricultural landscape.
The Government must continue implementing supportive policies and incentives to incentivise private sector participation, spur innovation and facilitate market access for irrigated agricultural products. Collaborative efforts between Government agencies, research institutions and private stakeholders can foster a conducive environment for agricultural growth and economic development.
In essence, the time is ripe for Zimbabwe to seize the potential of irrigation-driven agriculture as a catalyst for resilience, prosperity, and self-reliance.
By leveraging our water resources, optimising agricultural practices and embracing technological advancements, we can steer our nation towards a future where food security is assured, economic opportunities abound and sustainable development is realised for generations to come.
Agriculture is the new frontier of wealth and economic prosperity and Zimbabwe has the best land, agro industries producing seed and fertilisers to support operations.
As the global population continues to expand, agriculture emerges as not just a vital necessity for sustenance but also as the newest and most significant economic frontier of our time and with the support farmers are getting in the Second Republic producers in the country can only thrive, failure is not an option.
The convergence of technological advancements, changing consumer preferences and environmental imperatives has positioned agriculture as a beacon of wealth creation and economic prosperity on a massive scale.
One of the defining factors propelling agriculture into this new era of opportunity is the sheer size and diversity of the global population.
With projections indicating a population of over nine billion by 2050, the demand for food, fibre, and bio-energy is set to skyrocket.
This surge in demand presents an unprecedented market for agricultural products and services, offering immense potential for wealth generation across the value chain.
Furthermore, the evolution of technology has revolutionised every aspect of agriculture, from precision farming and data analytics to biotechnology and sustainable practices.
These innovations have not only boosted productivity and efficiency but have also opened doors to new markets, value-added products and disruptive business models within the agricultural sector.
Moreover, agriculture is not limited to traditional farming practices but encompasses a vast array of sectors such as agri-tech, agri-processing, agri-tourism, and agri-financing. Each of these sub-sectors offers unique avenues for wealth creation, job opportunities and economic development, contributing significantly to overall prosperity and social well-being.
Investing in agriculture is unlocking transformative solutions that create inclusive growth, empower rural communities and build resilient food systems.
The rise of agri-entrepreneurship and agri-innovation hubs further underscores the dynamism and potential of the agricultural sector. These hubs serve as incubators for ideas, technologies, and collaborations that drive forward-thinking solutions to agricultural challenges while fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship among the youth and rural populations.
Agriculture stands at the forefront of the newest and biggest economic frontier, poised to unlock unprecedented wealth and prosperity in the face of a growing global population.
By harnessing the power of technology, sustainability, entrepreneurship and strategic partnerships, we can unleash the full potential of agriculture as a driver of economic transformation, job creation and sustainable development for generations to come.