President Emmerson Mnangagwa has launched a major agricultural mechanisation initiative targeting smallholder farmers across Zimbabwe.
The Expanded Farmer Mechanisation Facility aims to improve access to tractors and modern farming equipment. The programme will particularly benefit communal and rural farmers.
Mnangagwa unveiled the initiative in Harare ahead of the 2026/2027 summer cropping season. It will also complement the Government’s Pfumvudza/Intwasa agricultural programme.
The initiative seeks to reduce dependence on manual labour and animal-drawn equipment. Consequently, farmers could cultivate larger areas and improve productivity.
Speaking at the launch, Mnangagwa described the programme as a significant investment in rural development.
“This is an important milestone in our national journey towards agriculture modernisation, rural industrialisation and overall economic transformation. Today’s occasion represents much more than the distribution of farming equipment, including tractors and other agricultural implements. It is a deliberate national investment in the productive capacity of our farmers, especially small-holder farmers and broad-based economic empowerment of communities. Agriculture is a strategic pillar of our national economy and the realisation of our Vision to become a prosperous and empowered upper middle-income society,” he said.
New scheme targets farming challenges
The President highlighted the limitations facing farmers who still depend on traditional farming methods.
According to Mnangagwa, approximately one million hectares fall under Pfumvudza/Intwasa annually. However, animal-drawn implements account for 19.5% of cultivated land.
He said mechanisation would help farmers overcome production challenges. Furthermore, affordable equipment could reduce farming costs and improve household incomes.
The facility will support successful Village Business Units across all provinces. Youths and war veterans operating these units will also benefit.
Mnangagwa challenged beneficiaries to maintain equipment properly and establish accountable management systems.
He also called for transparent financial records and sustainable operating arrangements. Meanwhile, Government will continue investing in irrigation, grain storage and rural infrastructure.
Mnangagwa calls for climate resilience
The President also emphasised the need to protect agriculture against climate change.
He highlighted Government’s six-pillar strategy for preparing the country against El Niño-related challenges.
The strategy includes grain reserves, climate-smart farming and livestock drought mitigation. It also covers agricultural financing, imports and improved early-warning systems.
Mnangagwa urged communities to support national efforts towards climate resilience.
The expanded mechanisation programme also has support from financial institutions. Besides improving agricultural production, it is expected to accelerate rural industrialisation.
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