Sharleen Mohammed 

The Ministry of Lands, agriculture, fisheries, water and rural development says it is working to make farming attractive to young people by introducing modern tools and technology.

Speaking after giving oral evidence before the Parliamentary Committee on Sustainable Development Goals in Harare yesterday, Permanent Secretary for Agriculture Professor Obert Jiri said farming must appeal to young people if Zimbabwe is to secure its future food needs.

 “We must make agriculture something that excites young people. We are introducing modern tools — from GPS-guided tractors and driver-less machinery to e-marketing platforms and artificial intelligence so that farming becomes easier, smarter and more profitable,” said Professor Jiri. 

Asked by Parliamentary Committee chairperson Honourable Senator Chief Siansali about inclusivity for women, girls, youths and people with disabilities, Professor Jiri said the ministry’s programmes are designed to benefit everyone.

He said the ministry is using digital tools at every stage of production, from breeding using tissue culture to monitoring crops and livestock with smart technology. “Our aim is to help young people see farming not as punishment but as a noble business where they can earn a good living,” he added.

The ministry is also promoting e-commerce platforms to connect farmers directly with buyers, cut losses, and make markets more accessible.

Committee members praised the ministry’s efforts, saying digital technology could bring more young women and men into farming, reduce rural unemployment and improve food security.