Story by Tamuka Charakupa
THE African Development Bank (AfDB) has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Zimbabwe’s food security and power infrastructure, following a high-level assessment visit to its projects in Mashonaland West.
The AfDB Executive Director, Dr Eugenio Maria Paulo, who is in the country on a project assessment visit, met several beneficiaries of the Emergency Food Production Facility Project in Mashonaland West.
The programme, which was introduced in 2022, is aimed at cushioning farmers from climate shocks while strengthening national food reserves.
It also provides crucial inputs directly to farmers, increasing yields and securing sustainable livelihoods.
One of the beneficiaries, farmer Tichaona Mapfoche, says the support has transformed his farming project.
“Through the AfDB support, I managed to secure inputs on time, which improved my yields significantly. I also entered joint ventures that expanded my hectarage. My income has grown, and I am now able to reinvest in irrigation and mechanisation. This programme has truly empowered us as farmers,” he said.
A major highlight of Dr Paulo’s visit was the Alaska-Karoi Transmission Project, a flagship investment reinforcing electricity infrastructure in Karoi, Makonde and Hurungwe districts, which is benefitting over five thousand households, schools, clinics and local businesses.
“We are pleased with what we have witnessed on the ground. The collaboration between the Government of Zimbabwe and AfDB is yielding tangible results that directly improve people’s lives. We are committed to strengthening these partnerships and scaling up support where needed,” he noted.
Agricultural and Rural Development Authority (ARDA), a key partner in the Food Production Facility, has endorsed development partner collaboration on the agriculture sector growth.
“As ARDA, our mandate is to feed the nation. Working with development partners like AfDB enables us to close gaps in production, introduce modern practices, and empower farmers. This synergy is vital for national food security,” Agricultural and Rural Development Authority CEO, Mr Tino Mhiko said.
Dr Paulo also paid a courtesy call on Mashonaland West Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Marian Chombo.
“Out of 35 548 hectares of wheat planted, we have harvested over 35 296 hectares, producing more than 187 000 metric tonnes at an impressive 5.3 tonnes per hectare, one of the highest national averages. Pfumvudza/Intwasa is also on track across all districts as we target 650 000 households for the 2025/26 season. Under the Rural Development Programme, we have 141 Village Business Units, with 83 completed and 58 under construction. These partnerships are transforming the livelihoods of our people,” she added.
The AfDB is rolling out a US$1 billion package for African countries affected by global supply chain disruptions.
