Agriculture Reporter
Government has launched a nationwide agribusiness training programme aimed at equipping at least 21000 young people with essential farming skills, financial literacy, and access to modern agricultural technologies.
The initiative, developed in partnership with the private sector, is designed to integrate young people into the agricultural sector and position farming as a viable and profitable career path.
Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development chief programmes coordinator, NickrosKajengo, emphasised the importance of engaging young people in agriculture, pointing out that they constitute over 60 percent of Zimbabwe’s population.
"The future of Zimbabwe’s agriculture depends on the youth. If we are to ensure food security, economic stability, and employment creation, we must empower them with the right knowledge and resources," Kajengo said.
He stressed that agriculture must be treated as a business rather than a survival activity, highlighting that modern techniques, innovation, and access to funding are crucial in making farming attractive to young people.
"This initiative is about transforming the mindset of young people. We want them to see agriculture as a competitive, rewarding, and sustainable industry. Farming is no longer just about tilling the land; it is about smart agriculture, technology, and value addition," he added.
The programme will provide hands-on training, mentorship, and financial assistance, helping young people establish their own agribusiness ventures.
According to Kajengo, this aligns with the Government's broader strategy of rural industrialisation and economic growth, ensuring that Zimbabwe’s youth play a key role in shaping the country’s future agricultural landscape.
"If we do not equip young people with the right skills, the agricultural sector will struggle to remain competitive. Our goal is to create a new generation of farmers who are not only producers but also entrepreneurs in the agricultural value chain," he said.
Many young people in Zimbabwe have moved away from agriculture due to a lack of resources and the perception that farming is a low-income profession.
Kajengo emphasised that this initiative seeks to change that narrative by introducing modern technology, access to markets, and financial incentives that make agribusiness a more lucrative industry.
"We have seen the success of similar programmes in other African countries such as Kenya, Tanzania, and Senegal. Young farmers in these nations have benefited from government support, training, and access to financing, allowing them to establish thriving agribusinesses," he noted.
Kajengo assured that Government, in partnership with private sector players, will continue expanding opportunities for young people to ensure that agriculture becomes a stable source of employment and economic empowerment.
"This is just the beginning. We are committed to supporting young farmers through training, funding, and access to modern technologies. Our vision is to create a thriving agricultural sector where young people take the lead in innovation and productivity," he said.
He encouraged young people to take advantage of the initiative, urging them to view agriculture not just as a means of livelihood but as a powerful tool for national development.
"This is an opportunity to secure your future and contribute to the country's economic progress. The success of Zimbabwe's agricultural industry depends on the energy, creativity, and dedication of young people," Kajengo concluded.
With thousands of young people set to benefit, the initiative is expected to reshape Zimbabwe’s agricultural sector, creating a new generation of skilled, business-oriented farmers who will drive the nation towards food security, industrial growth, and economic resilience.
