Tiyani Hahlani.

The Zimbabwe Farmers Union (ZFU) will hold its 85th annual congress in Masvingo on October 24, focusing on restoring the dignity and economic strength of farmers running under the theme “Pathways to Farmer Dignity.”

The high-profile event will take place at Urban Lifestyle Hotel and is expected to bring together farmers, policymakers, agribusiness stakeholders, and development partners to deliberate on pressing issues affecting Zimbabwe’s agricultural sector.

Speaking ahead of the congress, ZFU Secretary General Paul Zakariya said this year’s gathering will examine the position of the farmer in the country’s agricultural landscape, amid growing concerns over challenges that continue to hinder productivity and profitability.

“We are looking at issues that concern the farmer, especially about the position of the farmer in the agricultural space in Zimbabwe. A lot of things are actually happening around the farmer in an adverse manner,” said Zakariya.

He also emphasized the agenda of the union, noting that it seeks to influence policies that recognize the farmer as a key driver of agricultural and economic development.

“From a policy point of view, we want to influence the government to begin to see the farmer as the primary producer, a very important cob in the whole machinery of agricultural development,” he added.

Among the issues expected to dominate discussions are the high cost of inputs and loans, limited access to markets, delayed payments, and mechanisation challenges that continue to affect both commercial and smallholder farmers.

“When you look at the cost of money in our country, we are probably the most expensive in terms of loans. Our farmers, especially smallholders, find it difficult to access markets, and this remains a critical matter in this year’s congress,” said Zakariya.

The ZFU Congress, which has become one of the most important platforms for the country’s farming community, is expected to craft practical recommendations aimed at improving farmer welfare and strengthening agricultural value chains across Zimbabwe.