By Staff Reporter
JAPAN has handed over more than 5 500 tonnes of fertiliser that is expected to boost agricultural production for small-scale farmers across Zimbabwe.
The 3 600 tonnes of ammonium nitrate and 1 940 metric tonnes of Compound D fertiliser were handed over to government at the Grain Marketing Board (GMB) Aspindale Depot in Harare.
The donation is expected to benefit approximately 100 000 small-scale farmers throughout Zimbabwe, offering the much-needed support ahead of the upcoming agricultural season.
Speaking at the handover ceremony, ambassador Shinichi Yamanaka underscored the importance of partnership in fostering food security and economic stability in Zimbabwe.
โThis donation of fertiliser is a testament to the strong and enduring relationship between Japan and Zimbabwe,โ he said.
โWe understand the critical role that small-scale farmers play in the nationโs agricultural productivity and we hope that this support will significantly enhance their capacity to contribute to Zimbabweโs food security.โ
Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development ministry secretary Obert Jiri expressed gratitude on behalf of government for the donation.
He said the support was in line with Zimbabweโs broader efforts to revitalise the agricultural sector.
โThis generous donation from the government of Japan comes at a critical time as we prepare for the planting season,โ Jiri said.
โIt will go a long way in supporting small-scale farmers, who are the backbone of our agricultural economy. We are committed to ensuring that this fertiliser reaches those who need it most.โ
He also said the fertiliser would be distributed through the GMB.
โGMB has been tasked with ensuring that the assistance reaches the intended beneficiaries efficiently and transparently,โ Jiri said.
โThe fertiliser is expected to play a crucial role in improving crop yields, particularly for staple crops such as maize, which is a key component of Zimbabweโs food security.โ
Meanwhile, the partnership between Zimbabwe and Japan has seen several other impactful projects aimed at enhancing various sectors within the country.
Japan has been a key partner in Zimbabweโs health sector, notably through the construction and refurbishment of clinics and hospitals, as well as the provision of medical equipment and supplies.
The Japanese government has also supported Zimbabweโs infrastructural development, including road rehabilitation and water supply projects, which are critical for the countryโs socio-economic development.
