Govt Launches US$1.4 Billion Agriculture Drive

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture, Professor Obert Jiri

Rutendo Mazhindu- Zim Now Reporter

The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, Professor Obert Jiri, has unveiled Zimbabwe’s US$1.4 billion investment drive targeting seven key value chains.

Speaking at the Africa Food Systems Forum 2025 in Dakar, Senegal, Prof. Jiri said the investment will focus on blueberries, dairy, beef, maize, sunflower, soybean, and poultry production.

“Zimbabwe is open for business, and agriculture is no exception,” he said.

On the sidelines of the forum, during the Livestock Ministerial Deep Dive session, Prof. Jiri emphasised the central role of livestock in Africa’s food security.

“Livestock is not a subsector, it is the bedrock of livelihoods,” he said.

He outlined Zimbabwe’s agricultural recovery plan, the resilience gains achieved so far, and the urgent need for vaccines, stressing that Africa must move decisively from dialogue to implementation.

The AFSF 2025 summit is being held under the framework of the AU Kampala Declaration (CAADP 2026–2035), focusing on food security, climate resilience, and sustainable livelihoods across the continent.