THE government has endorsed bio-fortified crops saying they are essential to realising Vision 2030 marking a pivotal moment in its agricultural landscape.
In a significant endorsement to bio-fortification initiatives, Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development secretary Obert Jiri commended researchers and institutions’ efforts in driving the innovations.
Addressing the second Research and Extension Symposium in Harare recently, Jiri emphasised the transformative potential of agricultural research in advancing national development goals.
“The greater mission for all researchers is not merely to innovate but to uplift communities, revive the economy, and restore Zimbabwe’s rightful place as Africa’s breadbasket,” he said.
Jiri recognised the contribution of his ministry’s researchers in promoting bio-fortified crops, highlighting the success of iron-rich beans, pro-Vitamin A maize and sweet potatoes, which are gaining traction across the nation.
The symposium themed; Transformative Agricultural Technologies Accelerating the Attainment of Vision 2030 convened a diverse group of agricultural scientists, extension officers, farmers, private sector representatives and development partners.
They collaborated to share knowledge and explore strategies aimed at enhancing food and nutrition security in Zimbabwe.
HarvestPLus Zimbabwe country manager Sakile Kudita reiterated the organisation’s commitment to supporting government’s agricultural transformative efforts.
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“We reaffirm our commitment, as CIAT and IFPRI–HarvestPlus, to supporting the ministry in its pursuit of scientific evidence to inform national priorities, policies and strategies.
“Our shared purpose is to contribute to sustainable food systems transformation by improving food and nutrition security, empowering farmers to thrive and safeguarding the environment amid a climate crisis,” she said.
This strong governmental support coincides with the rising popularity of NUA45, an iron bean variety that is making significant strides among farmers and consumers.
Known for its high yield potential (up to 3 tonnes per hectare), early maturity (80–85 days), quick cooking time and resistance to prevalent bean diseases such as rust and bacterial blight, NUA45 has become a staple crop.
A 2023 nationally representative adoption survey reported a 29% adoption rate for NUA45, with a focused study in the bean production corridor revealing a 47% adoption rate.
The drought-tolerant NUA45 has become a preferred choice for both commercial and humanitarian agricultural initiatives.
Government and development partner programmes focused on social protection and agricultural recovery are now prioritising the distribution of NUA45, establishing it as the go-to choice for bean seed and grain distribution programmes.
