Govt Launches Performance-Based Extension Award To Strengthen Food Security
The Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Water, Fisheries and Rural Development has introduced the Best Extension Worker Award to promote excellence among agricultural business advisors.
The initiative, launched Friday in Banket, is part of ongoing efforts to raise food production and improve service delivery nationwide.
Permanent Secretary Professor Obert Jiri said the programme supports the transformation of agriculture into a results-driven sector through recognition and capacitation.
“We introduced this award to promote excellence and accountability within our extension system. Extension officers are the bridge between research and the farmer, and their performance directly impacts production.
“With the tools and resources we have provided, we expect them to go the extra mile. Our end goal is simple: we want to ensure food security by increasing productivity per hectare, and that can only happen if farmers receive the right support on time, ” he explained.
The award backs an ongoing capacitation drive. Advisors—formerly known as extension officers have been equipped with motorbikes, tablets, solar kits, and ongoing training to improve mobility, communication, and field service.
Officers say these tools are helping overcome outreach challenges and deepen farmer engagement.
“We are grateful for the support we are receiving from the government. We now have no mobility challenges because of the motorbikes, and communication has improved thanks to the tablets.
“Above all, we receive timely updates on current trends, complemented by vigorous capacity-building workshops,” said Mhondoro Ngezi Ward 5 extension worker Mrs Nyasha Gonde.
Field-level staff say recognition sharpens focus and boosts morale. “This award motivates us as the ground force to push beyond our limits. It will unlock personal skills and spur healthy competition among us, but above all, the farmers are the ultimate winners,” said Makonde Ward 5 extension worker Mr Mushambi Tigere.
Provincial leaders report improved response times and smarter crop monitoring.
“It is easy to work with a motivated individual. The capacitation of our extension officers has transformed the way we deliver services to farmers.
“With motorbikes, mobile tablets, and solar kits, officers can now collect real-time data, monitor crop performance more effectively, and respond swiftly to farmers’ needs,” said Mashonaland West Provincial Director Mrs Medlinah Magwenzi.
She noted that the nationwide digital shift is improving oversight and strategic decisions.
“This digital approach helps us make informed decisions at the national level. Ultimately, it’s about improving efficiency, boosting productivity, and ensuring no farmer is left behind.”
In Masvingo Province, home to 52 percent of Zimbabwe’s water bodies, officials say improved mobility is expanding their reach.
“Before this capacitation drive, many of our officers were limited by lack of transport and equipment. Now, with motorbikes and tablets, they can visit more farmers in remote areas, offer real-time technical advice, and send reports instantly.
“This has greatly strengthened farmer engagement and adoption of recommended farming practices,” said Provincial Director Mr Caleb Mahoya.
The ministry says the award—supported by resources and training is designed to align advisory services with tangible productivity outcomes.
Progress will be monitored through field-level data, crop performance, and farmer feedback as Zimbabwe intensifies its food security strategy.
-ZBC
