Story by Mercy Bofu-Matinha
Stakeholders in the agriculture sector have been challenged to be alive to the laws and policies that guide their operations to ensure growth of the sector.
The Masvingo Provincial Agricultural show which ended this Sunday, was officially opened by the Attorney General, Ms Virginia Mabhiza who took time to remind farmers and stakeholders in the agriculture value chain on some of the laws and policies that guide their operations.
She said, “As we strive for agricultural excellence as a country, as stakeholders let us be alert to the laws and policies that shape our journey. Let us fully embrace our progressive laws and policies to enhance productivity and to reduce poverty in our communities. We have got the Intellectual property, branch of law that protects farmers and breeders’ innovation. Again we got the land ownership and security of tenure, this is very important for farmers in terms of their security at their farms.”
Masvingo province has come up with various platforms that encourage collaboration and partnerships among businesses and agriculture stakeholders.
“The Masvingo Provincial Agricultural show comes following the hosting of Masvingo business Expo, the 2nd Diaspora Investment Conference, The Provincial Development Consultative meeting and othe events all meant to create environment of collaboration and innovation among our businesses and stakeholders,” said Masvingo Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Ezra Chadzamira.
For the young ones, the show was a platform to learn filled with a lot of entertainment.
“Coming here gave me an opportunity to visit various stands where I learnt a lot especially about irrigation development and livestock farming,” said a youth.
Show Organizers described the event as a success.
“As Organizers of this event we are excited about the turn out and the outcome was beyond our expectations,” said Masvingo Show Society chairperson, Mrs Fadzai Jirivengwa.
Companies and individuals were awarded for their outstanding exhibitions.
