Staff Reporter
The Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), with support from the Italian government, has launched two transformative cross-border projects between Zimbabwe and Mozambique aimed at enhancing climate resilience, conserving vital ecosystems, and strengthening agricultural trade.
The two initiatives Transboundary Integrated Sustainable Management of Miombo Woodlands and the Agricultural Value Chain and Trade Development Project are designed to boost inclusive economic growth through sustainable land management and structured trade systems that benefit smallholder farmers and rural communities.
Speaking at the official launch, yesterday, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Environment, Climate and Wildlife, Ambassador Tedious Chifamba, underscored the significance of the Miombo woodland ecosystem, which spans large areas of Southern Africa and supports millions of livelihoods.
“The Miombo woodlands are no longer viewed simply as fragile environments but are now recognised as crucial climate assets. This initiative is not just about trees it is about unlocking the potential of these ecosystems to reduce rural poverty, support climate adaptation, and drive green economic recovery,” Ambassador Chifamba said.
The Permanent Secretary added that healthy forest ecosystems underpin agricultural productivity, generate green jobs, and support eco-tourism, creating new opportunities for communities while enhancing resilience to climate shocks.
His counterpart, Professor Obert Jiri, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, emphasised the importance of regional co-operation in strengthening the agricultural value chain.
“The agricultural trade project will allow smallholder farmers in both countries to access international markets and take advantage of emerging trade frameworks at regional and continental levels. It will help integrate local producers into global value chains, while promoting policies that benefit both public and private sector actors,” he said.
The Italian Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Umberto Malnati, said the projects are part of Italy’s broader Mattei Plan for Africa, which is based on mutual partnership and local empowerment.
“Mozambique and Zimbabwe are key partners in our vision for sustainable economic growth and human development in Africa,” he said.
FAO Sub-Regional Coordinator, Dr Patrice TallaTakoukam added that both projects embody FAO’s integrated approach to agrifood systems, balancing sustainable production with environmental protection and improved nutrition.
The Miombo woodlands, one of Africa’s largest tropical dry forest ecosystems, are home to over 300 million people across the region. The sustainable management project will protect biodiversity and improve food security, while the trade development initiative will support micro, small, and medium enterprises, especially those led by women and theyouth in agro-processing and market access.
Together, these projects represent a bold step forward in regional climate action, sustainable development, and economic integration.
