The Zimbabwe AgriTech Strategy 2021–2025
April 2021
Strategies and Action Plans
The Zimbabwe AgriTech Strategy 2021–2025 is a comprehensive initiative aimed at transforming the country’s agricultural sector through the integration of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs). Developed under the Smart Africa e-Agriculture and AgriTech initiative, this strategy positions Zimbabwe as a continental leader in agricultural innovation.
Objectives and vision
The primary goal of the strategy is to digitalize Zimbabwe’s farming ecosystem, enhancing evidence-based decision-making for both government entities and farmers. By leveraging ICTs, the strategy seeks to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and increase the competitiveness of agriculture. It also aims to connect smallholder farmers to mainstream markets, thereby improving their livelihoods and contributing to national food security.
Strategic framework
The strategy was developed collaboratively by the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Resettlement and the Ministry of ICT, Postal and Courier Services, with support from Science and Advanced Global Innovation Technologies (SAGIT). It aligns with the African Union’s Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP) and serves as a blueprint for other African nations to integrate ICTs into agriculture.
Key components
- Digital tools and platforms: Implementation of applications such as Eco-farmer, Kurima Mari, e-Mukambo, and VAYA Tractor to provide farmers with access to market information, financial services, and mechanization support.
- Infrastructure development: Establishment of community information centers to facilitate knowledge dissemination and digital literacy among rural populations.
- Policy and regulatory support: Harmonization of policies to create an enabling environment for AgriTech innovations and cross-border collaborations.
Expected outcomes
By 2025, the strategy aims to contribute significantly to the growth of Zimbabwe’s agricultural sector, targeting a valuation of US$13.75 billion. This growth is expected to be driven by increased productivity, enhanced market access, and the adoption of sustainable farming practices.
Continental impact
As the flagship nation for the development of the Continental AgriTech Blueprint, Zimbabwe’s strategy is set to influence agricultural transformation across Africa. The blueprint provides a framework for other African countries to develop their own AgriTech strategies, fostering regional cooperation and knowledge sharing.