Zimbabwe to Celebrate World Soil Day with Grand Ev...

Zimbabwe to Celebrate World Soil Day with Grand Event at Crest Sango

Witness Runodada

Zim Now Writer

Zimbabwe will join the global community in commemorating World Soil Day on December 5, 2024, with a major celebration planned at Crest Sango. This year's theme, “Caring for Soils: Measure, Monitor,” highlights the vital role of soil conservation in sustainable development.

Edwin Samuel Zimunga, Chief Director of Agricultural Engineering, Mechanisation, and Soil Conservation, emphasised soil’s profound connection to Zimbabwe's identity and future. "For you to be called Zimbabwe, it's the soil," Zimunga remarked, underscoring the resource's fundamental importance. He reflected on the global recognition of soil conservation, which dates back to the UN's introduction of the Soil Charter in the mid-20th century.

The event aims to mobilise Zimbabweans to appreciate the pivotal role of soil in agriculture, wildlife, forestry, and the economy. Traditional conservation practices like Konto Farming, which prevents erosion and preserves fertility, will take center stage, showcasing how deeply soil stewardship is embedded in Zimbabwean culture.

The Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water, and Rural Development is spearheading a collaborative, cross-sectoral effort to promote soil conservation. Key stakeholders include ministries responsible for education, science, and climate. Activities will extend beyond the flagship event to grassroots celebrations at village, ward, district, and provincial levels.

Children will play a crucial role in the festivities through poetry, posters, and academic initiatives designed to integrate soil conservation into education under Curriculum 5.0, which prioritizes agricultural learning. Local communities and industries will also engage in soil-focused programs to reinforce sustainable practices nationwide.

Zimunga lauded Zimbabwe’s recent agricultural successes but warned of the urgent need for soil management to sustain these gains. "Anything of economic value happens on soil," he said, highlighting the link between soil health, ecosystems, and livelihoods.

The celebration aims to make soil conservation a daily priority. By blending traditional wisdom with modern science, Zimbabwe seeks to lead by example in soil resilience and sustainability, ensuring the preservation of this vital resource for generations to come.