The initiative seeks to secure a surplus of one million tonnes of maize by 2030. Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development Deputy Minister, Vangelis Haritatos, delivered the presentation in Harare during engagements between Government officials and a high-level Danish Business Delegation. The Danish delegation is in the country to explore investment opportunities in food systems, agriculture and clean energy sectors.
Agriculture is strategically important to Zimbabwe’s economy, contributing 13,5 percent to 17 percent to the country’s gross domestic product. Crucially as well, the sector employs 60-70 percent of the population and provides vital raw materials for industry. However, its GDP contribution is heavily influenced by factors like weather, with droughts significantly undermining output and economic stability, which has seen the Government adopt various initiatives to drive investment in irrigation infrastructure and climate-proof farming practices.
The policies presented to the investors include the Productive Social Investment Model, the National Enhancement of Agriculture Productivity Scheme (NEAPS), the Village Business Units (VBUs), the Irrigation Development Alliance Model, Mechanisation Alliance Model and the Vision 2030 Accelerator Model. Additionally, the deputy minister also lectured the investors on the ARDA Vision Incubator Accelerator Model, the Infrastructure 6.0 Model, the Agriculture Machinery and Equipment Leasing Model, the Private Sector Investment Model and the Hub and Spoke Model. “The country prioritised increased agricultural production and productivity, building resilient food systems, improved food and nutrition security, increased agriculture exports, import substitution and job opportunities for youth. “A total investment of US$1,42 billion is required in maize, soyabean, sunflower, blueberry, broiler, egg, beef and dairy value chain,” he said.
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