The African Union’s extraordinary summit on the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP), held in Kampala, Uganda, has ignited renewed hope for agricultural transformation across the continent.
With a focus on advancing the Post-Malabo CAADP agenda, the summit underscored the critical role of commercial agriculture in fostering socio-economic development, food security, and sustainable growth.
For Zimbabwe, the summit presents an invaluable opportunity to further its agricultural revival and reclaim its historic title as Africa’s breadbasket. The Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water, and Rural Development, Dr. Anxious Masuka, emphasized the importance of leveraging the summit’s outcomes to enhance food systems, boost market access, and build resilience across communities.
Dr. Masuka highlighted a strategic shift toward achieving self-sufficiency, including the production of fertilizers, vaccines, and other essential inputs.
“It is time to double our efforts to meet the targets outlined in our action plans. We commend the bold vision of the new CAADP strategy, which aligns with Africa’s broader goals for prosperity and resilience. Strengthening governance will be crucial for building sustainable agri-food systems,” he stated.
The minister also advocated for value addition as a key driver for economic transformation. By processing agricultural products locally, Zimbabwe can unlock greater economic potential, reduce dependency on imports, and position itself competitively in global markets. Investing in research, innovation, and global market trends, he added, will ensure continuous progress and productivity enhancements.
The summit brought together over 2,000 delegates, including agricultural experts, policymakers, and heads of state from 43 member countries, signaling a collective commitment to overcoming Africa’s agricultural challenges. Discussions centered on sustainable practices, technological adoption, and innovative solutions to drive food security and economic development.
For Zimbabwe, these discussions resonate deeply. The country’s renewed focus on mechanization, digitization, and modern farming technologies aligns seamlessly with the CAADP goals. These strategies are not just about feeding the nation—they are about restoring its status as a regional leader in agriculture.
By embracing these transformative strategies, Zimbabwe has the potential to not only secure its food systems but also become a model for sustainable agricultural practices across Africa. The nation stands poised to play a pivotal role
