Zimbabwe and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) today held the Food and Agribusiness Virtual Forum aimed at understanding the synergies and business opportunities, especially in the food and agribusiness areas according to the Chief Representative- Southern Africa Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Abdulla Momade.
Lands, Agriculture, Water and Rural Resettlement Minister Anxious Jongwe Masuka, who gave the Keynote address said the Virtual Forum is appropriate and opportune as it supports Zimbabwe’s objective to diversify and grow exports.
He said, “This Virtual Forum provides a timely opportunity to reflect on the accelerated agricultural transformation unfolding in Zimbabwe and the multifarious opportunities this brings to export-facing agricultural enterprises.”
“I, therefore, urge you to explore and cultivate win-win opportunities for the mutual benefit of your companies, and ultimately our two countries.”
The Virtual forum comes after Zimbabwe launched the Agriculture and Food Systems Transformation Strategy which aims to increase agricultural output to USD8.2 billion by 2025 and to grow exports to USD4.2 billion by 2025 in August last year.
Masuka commented on the agricultural transformation strategy and said,” We envisage export growth for flowers, fruits, vegetables and nuts.”
“We also anticipate accelerated exports of tobacco, tea and sugar, among many others.”
“Additionally, we yearn for the export of value-added produce and products.”
The UAE-Zimbabwe Food and Agribusiness Virtual Forum received more than 1 300 registration according to Momade.
Masuka told the delegates that Zimbabwe has substantial comparative advantages and opportunities to transform its agri-food systems.
“With a uniquely suited agriculturally hospitable and favourable climate, Zimbabwe can leverage on the many trade opportunities with UAE to grow its economy, create more jobs, entrench entrepreneurship and sharpen innovation along various agriculture and food value chains,” he said.