Zimbabwe and Uganda have strengthened agricultural cooperation following a high-level farmers awards and exchange programme hosted by Ngabo Agricultural Research Institute, which focused on innovation, youth empowerment and sustainable farming practices across Africa.
The programme brought together farmers, researchers, agribusiness leaders and youth representatives from both countries to share experiences on improving productivity, value addition and climate-smart agriculture.
Director of Ngabo Agricultural Research Institute, Richard Rwabitwa, said Zimbabwe’s agricultural reforms and innovation-driven approach had positioned it as a key reference point for regional learning.
"Zimbabwe has demonstrated strong commitment to transforming agriculture through innovation, research and inclusive participation. The progress made in youth involvement and agricultural development is highly commendable," said Rwabitwa.
"Through such exchanges, African countries are building stronger systems that allow farmers to learn from each other and adopt technologies that improve productivity and resilience," he added.
Zimbabwe’s delegation, led by the agricultural youth desk, used the platform to showcase ongoing initiatives aimed at empowering young farmers and strengthening agribusiness development.
Agricultural youth fesk representative Nickros Kajengo said the exchange programme had provided valuable exposure and opportunities for collaboration.
"This platform has allowed us to demonstrate how Zimbabwe is integrating young people into agriculture while also learning from Uganda’s innovations in value addition and farm mechanisation," said Kajengo.
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"We are committed to ensuring that agriculture becomes attractive and profitable for young people, because they are the future of food security in Africa," he said.
Zimbabwe women in agribusiness network representative Phillipa Jaya said women remained central to agricultural transformation and must be supported with resources and training.
"Women play a critical role in food production and agribusiness. Platforms like this are important because they give us the opportunity to share experiences and strengthen regional networks that support women in agriculture," said Jaya.
Genesis fertiliser global dolutions Zimbabwe chief executive officer Ponai Ndimwi Matsenyengwa said collaboration between the private sector and farmers was key to boosting productivity.
"Agricultural transformation requires strong partnerships between farmers, researchers and the private sector. Innovation in inputs and sustainable farming solutions will drive Africa’s food security agenda," said Matsenyengwa.
Africa youth congress representative Taurai Kandishaya said youth participation was central to achieving agricultural growth across the continent.
"The future of African agriculture lies in the hands of young people. We must ensure they are supported with skills, access to land and financing so they can actively participate in food production and agribusiness," said Kandishaya.
Organisers said the programme is part of a broader regional effort to strengthen South-South cooperation in agriculture, focusing on practical solutions to food security and climate resilience.
They said the engagement is expected to lead to joint research initiatives, training programmes and expanded agricultural partnerships between Zimbabwe and Uganda.
"Agriculture remains the backbone of our economies, and through collaboration and knowledge exchange, young people can play a leading role in transforming Africa’s agricultural future," said one of the organisers.
Analysts say such regional exchanges are increasingly critical as African countries seek to modernise agriculture, enhance productivity and build resilient food systems capable of sustaining growing populations.
