Staff Reporter
Preparations for the highly anticipated Zimbabwe Urban and Peri Urban Farmers Expo are in full swing, with various subcommittees overseeing the successful organisation of the event already in place.
Urban and peri-urban farming involves the cultivation of crops and the keeping of small livestock and poultry within urban and peri-urban areas.
The Coalition for Agriculture Graduates of Zimbabwe (CAGOZ) director, Dickson Kubvakacha, shared insights into the upcoming event, stating that the Expo is scheduled for March 14, 2024.
Anticipating a significant turnout of urban and peri-urban farmers, Kubvakacha emphasised the importance of the Expo in promoting sustainable agricultural practices, amidst challenges, such as the El Niño-triggered drought.
"This much anticipated March 14, 2024, Zimbabwe Urban and Peri Urban Farmers Expo is off to a smooth start, with a multi-stakeholder meeting gathered today to establish a committee for this historic event. In the face of this El Nino-triggered drought, our Government saw it fit to have this public-private partnership-driven strategy not to leave urban and Peri Urban farmers behind," stated Kubvakacha.
Highlighting the Expo's role in promoting economic empowerment and food security, Kubvakacha stressed the need for transformative business enterprises tailored to urban farmers of all demographics.
"As CAGOZ, we want to establish, with the help of the Government, well-thought-out business initiatives aimed at empowering urban farmers and addressing issues like food security and substance abuse," he remarked.
Furthermore, Kubvakacha underscored CAGOZ's commitment to revitalizing agriculture and filling the void left by white commercial farmers.
"As CAGOZ, we are ready to take our agriculture to another level by filling the void left by the white former commercial farmers," he affirmed.
In terms of organization, Kubvakacha revealed that one Amai Shoko would lead the organizing committee for the Expo, with the venue set to be announced soon.
Kubvakacha urged Zimbabweans to take agriculture seriously, emphasising its pivotal role in driving economic growth and sustainable development.
"It is imperative that we prioritise agriculture and empower farmers across all sectors. Together, we can build a resilient agricultural sector that meets the needs of our nation," he added.
With preparations well underway and a strong sense of purpose driving the organisers, the Zimbabwe Urban and Peri Urban Farmers Expo promises to be a pivotal event in advancing agricultural innovation and empowerment in the country.
