Online Reporter
Precious Manomano-Herald Reporter
IN a move that resonates with Government’s thrust to modernise agriculture to enhance production and boost food security, Mashonaland East agriculture business advisers received 600 tablets as part of a capacity-building initiative.
Regarded as vital cogs in agricultural development, extension officers are expected to play a crucial role in bridging the gap between agricultural education, extension, and research.
Spearheaded by the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, the initiative aims to modernise agricultural practices and empower frontline workers.
During a handover launch ceremony held in Marondera, permanent secretary Professor Obert Jiri underscored the importance of the extension workers.
“You are the bridge between agriculture education, extension, and research. Your commitment to supporting our farmers is vital for enhancing productivity and resource management in our agricultural practices. Today, we take a significant stride forward in the digitalisation of agriculture by distributing ICT tablets to you — our frontline workers in agriculture,” he said.
These tablets are not merely devices — they are tools of empowerment that allow advisers to access critical agricultural information and resources at their fingertips.
Prof Jiri emphasised the need to capacitate extension workers in all areas of production to improve community outreach.
“It is important that the extension officer is capacitated in all areas of production for enhanced coverage of communities.”
He also highlighted the need for extension workers to be present on the ground to monitor and motivate farmers effectively.
“As we navigate the 21st century, the agriculture sector faces numerous challenges, including the impacts of climate change, the need for innovative farming practices, and the ever-evolving demands of the global market,” Prof Jiri said.
With tablets, personnel will gain access to real-time data, best practices, weather forecasts, pest identifications, market prices, and more.
Technology will enable them to share knowledge swiftly with farmers, ensuring that they are empowered to make informed decisions that enhance their farming practices.
“These tablets will not only facilitate knowledge transfer but revolutionise the way the country approaches agricultural extension services,” he added.
Moreover, the introduction of technology will streamline communication and reporting, making it easier for extension workers to relay feedback from farmers to policymakers and researchers.
“This two-way communication is essential for continuous improvement and adaptation in our agricultural practices.”
Prof Jiri emphasised the Government’s commitment to effective use of the devices and announced plans for training programmes and support services to ensure that the advisors are comfortable navigating the technologies.
Workshops and webinars will be scheduled to enhance their capacity to utilise the tools fully.
An adviser from Mahusekwa, Onai Chikafu, commended the Government’s commitment to improving their working conditions saying he would utilise the gadget to improve the sector.
“These gadgets will enable us to do crop assessments, write reports, and take videos and pictures. We promise to do our best with them,” he said.
This initiative marks a critical moment in the journey towards modernising agriculture in Zimbabwe, equipping advisers with the tools they need to foster growth and sustainability in the sector.
daniel chigunwe
