5 hours Ago By _Masv
By A Correspondent President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s promises to revive Zimbabwe’s agricultural sector have been met with skepticism, with many critics labeling his recent efforts as political gimmicks rather than genuine steps towards transformation. On Friday, Mnangagwa launched the Land Tenure Implementation Programme at Precabe Farm in Kwekwe, a new initiative he claims will rejuvenate the agricultural sector. During the event, he handed over Land Tenure Deeds to farmers, describing the move as a milestone in Zimbabwe’s agricultural progress.
However, opposition leaders and critics have dismissed the programme as an attempt to distract from the country’s ongoing agricultural challenges. “This is nothing more than a political stunt. For years, the country’s agricultural sector has suffered from poor policy implementation and lack of support, and this programme won’t change that,” one political analyst remarked.
In a statement during the event, Mnangagwa said, “Today, I officially launched the new Land Tenure Implementation Programme at Precabe Farm in Kwekwe, where I also handed over Land Tenure Deeds to Zimbabwean farmers. This milestone is a critical step in transforming our agricultural sector, enabling farmers to access credit facilities, purchase inputs, and hire labour. These tools will enhance agricultural production, improve yields, and uplift our people from poverty into prosperity.
” Despite the president’s optimism, many are doubtful that these measures will lead to significant improvements. “The land reform process has been poorly managed for years, and handing over deeds now won’t fix the systemic issues that have plagued farming in Zimbabwe,” said a critic of the programme. Mnangagwa also highlighted that the programme reflects his government’s commitment to inclusive growth, focusing on marginalized groups such as war veterans, women, and youth.
“This programme reflects the Second Republic’s commitment to inclusive growth, ensuring that war veterans, women, and the youth are not left behind in this transformative journey,” he added. While the president continues to champion agriculture as key to national development, his critics argue that the lack of tangible reforms over the years has made such promises seem increasingly far-fetched. “Farming has always been close to my heart, and I am proud to support this initiative, which will create opportunities for sustainable commercial agriculture and attract investment into our economy,” Mnangagwa said, but many believe that the focus should be on practical support for farmers, not just promises.
As Zimbabwe grapples with food insecurity and economic challenges, the real impact of this initiative remains to be seen. Many are calling for more than just ceremonial gestures, urging real action to revive the sector and restore confidence among farmers. “Together, we are building a thriving agricultural sector that drives Zimbabwe’s development and secures food security for future generations,” Mnangagwa concluded, but for many, these words appear to be more hopeful rhetoric than a concrete plan.
.
