Global Markets Open for 350 Zimbabwean Farmers in Climate Resilience Breakthrough
More than 350 smallholder farmers across Zimbabwe are set to access global markets through a new agricultural initiative aimed at linking irrigation schemes with private sector partners.
The programme, jointly launched by the Government of Zimbabwe, the Green Climate Fund (GCF), and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), is targeting farmers in Manicaland, Masvingo, and Matabeleland South.
Its core objective is to boost productivity, improve farmer incomes, and build resilience against climate change.
The initiative is being implemented under the seven-year Climate Resilience Livelihoods (CRL) project, which supports over 2.3 million people in climate adaptation efforts.
Through private sector dialogues and farmer learning days, the programme aims to connect smallholder producers with buyers, financial institutions, and input suppliers.
CRL project manager Mr Rungano Benza said the approach is designed to create sustainable market linkages.
“By linking production with profitable markets, we are ensuring that farmers can sustainably increase yields, incomes, and resilience,” he said.
According to the Chronicle, the programme combines business-to-farmer sessions with practical field demonstrations of climate-smart technologies.
These include solar-powered and drip irrigation systems, as well as soil and water conservation techniques aimed at improving productivity and environmental sustainability.
Mr Benza explained, “The new approach combines contract farming opportunities with practical exposure to innovations that improve productivity and sustainability.”
A key component of the programme is gender equity, with deliberate efforts to ensure women farmers are empowered to participate and benefit from the new
market opportunities.
Benza confirmed that more than 350 individuals — including irrigation management committees, local leaders, and agricultural extension officers are expected to participate across the three provinces.
Private sector partners involved range from banks and microfinance institutions to input suppliers and companies offering climate-smart technologies.
The initiative aligns with Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030 and the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1), which seek to drive inclusive economic growth through enhanced agricultural productivity.
It also contributes to the achievement of key Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those focused on food security, gender equality, and climate action.
