The successful conclusion of the 2nd Edition of the Agricultural Research and Extension Symposium 2025 marks a pivotal moment for Zimbabwe’s agricultural future.
It reinforced the country’s potential to lead agricultural innovation and ensure food security in the region.
With continued investment and strong partnerships, Zimbabwe is well-positioned to become a beacon of agricultural excellence in Africa.
Key Highlights:
-ARISS is developing elite germplasm and enhancing crop and livestock production technologies.
-Breeding programs are tackling major pests and diseases, reducing reliance on GMOs.
-Conservation agriculture practices such as contour ridging are gaining traction.
-The symposium provided a collaborative platform for multi-sectoral stakeholders.
-Zimbabwe is advancing toward national targets of food security, nutrition, and health by 2030.
The Agricultural Research and Innovation Services (ARISS) Directorate today concluded the three-day 2nd Edition of the Agricultural Research and Extension Symposium with a highly successful Demo Field Day.
The event showcased cutting-edge technologies and innovations in agricultural research, marking a major step forward for Zimbabwe’s agricultural development.
Bringing together stakeholders from government, academia, the private sector, and international institutions, the event served as a platform for knowledge exchange and collaboration.
Participants explored new solutions to drive agricultural productivity, sustainability, and resilience.
In his keynote address, ARISS Chief Director Dr. Dumisani Kutywayo emphasized the organization’s commitment to scientific progress.
“We have made significant strides in developing crop varieties that are resilient to climate change and pests,” he said.
Dr. Kutywayo also highlighted ARISS’s focus on elite germplasm development, improved crop and livestock technologies, and reducing losses across the value chain.
Speaking at the event, Agricultural Research Council CEO Dr. C. Magorokosho underscored the critical need for collaboration.
“We are here today so that we can get to know one another and start building research teams. Working in silos does not lead to impactful outcomes,” he said.
“Let’s unite and form one strong national research force.”
The Agricultural Research Council coordinates over 2,000 researchers from various institutions, helping to harmonize efforts in tackling food security, climate change, and sustainability.
The Council plays a pivotal role in aligning national research strategies and fostering partnerships across the agriculture sector.
Renowned Zimbabwean agronomist Ivan Craig applauded the nation’s progress.
“Zimbabwe’s agriculture is evolving rapidly with advancements in precision farming, crop breeding, and pest and disease management,” he said.
The symposium and demo plot tours underscored ARISS’s role in spearheading agricultural innovation in Zimbabwe.
Attendees witnessed demonstrations on technologies such as contour ridging, precision agriculture, conservation farming, and pest-resistant crop varieties. @top fans Africa Food Prize
