Story by John Nhandara
HARARE – THE Second Agriculture Research and Extension Symposium commenced in Harare this week, drawing together agricultural experts, researchers, and policymakers for a landmark event aimed at driving innovation and enhancing productivity in Zimbabwe’s agricultural sector.
More than 50 research papers are being presented, focusing on the development and application of research-based technologies tailored to transform the sector and support the country’s drive towards an upper middle-income economy by 2030.
Speaking at the event, Chief Director for Agricultural Research, Innovation and Specialist Services, Dr Dumisani Kutywayo, highlighted the wide scope of presentations expected during the symposium.
“We are looking forward to a robust engagement through panel and plenary sessions, as well as the presentation of research papers that cut across disciplines such as agronomy, livestock production, crop sciences, and the development of new seed varieties,” he said.
The symposium also places a strong emphasis on the nexus between innovation and research, with a focus on leveraging technology to address pressing challenges in agriculture.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Development, Professor Fanuel Tagwira, underscored the importance of aligning research with the real needs of farmers.
“This platform is key to enhancing our national research and innovation capabilities, ensuring that our outputs directly respond to the practical challenges in agriculture, with the ultimate goal of increasing productivity and resilience,” he noted.
The decentralisation of agricultural research and extension services has empowered district and provincial offices to support farmers more effectively.
Research Officer Tapiwa Joyce Takunye shared insights from field experiences.
“In areas like Chiredzi, our focus has been on region-specific horticulture research, working to develop climate-resilient genetic varieties that are suitable for local environmental conditions,” she explained.
Running under the theme: “Transformative Agricultural Technologies: Accelerating the Attainment of Vision 2030,” the symposium is addressing key thematic areas including crop breeding, agronomy, soil fertility management, agroecology, irrigation innovation, and soil conservation.
As Zimbabwe intensifies efforts to modernise its agricultural systems, the symposium is seen as a critical platform for knowledge exchange, policy alignment, and fostering innovation that supports inclusive and sustainable growth in the sector.
