The RAIZ consortium, comprised of CIRAD, University of Zimbabwe and CIMMYT, in partnerships with the Government of Zimbabwe through the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development recently welcomed the RAIZ Project Steering Committee, European Union Delegation Representative Sara Piccoli and Ambassador of France to the Republic of Zimbabwe, his Excellency Mr. Paul-Bertrand Barets, at the University of Zimbabwe Agro-Industrial Park. The visit included a tour of the Climate Simulation Long-Term Experiment implemented by the RAIZ Project in advancing agricultural research and transformation.
Funded by the European Union the EUR 4 million” Resilience Building through Agroecological Intensification (RAIZ) in Zimbabwe project, aims to support Zimbabwe`s agricultural sector transformation through scientific research and climate smart agriculture technologies and innovations. Focused on climate resilience and reducing greenhouse gas emissions, the initiative strives for a greener, more resilient Zimbabwe. RAIZ Project leads – Dr F. Affholder, Prof. R. Chikowo and Dr. l. Nyagumbo highlighted some key interesting measurements undertaken at the on-station long-term experiment including some initial results which require further inputs for solid recommendations to farmers and the Government.
During the visit the his Excellency, Mr. Paul-Bertrand Barets, engaged with project scientists to explore innovative solutions that aligns with Zimbabwe`s agricultural development goals. RAIZ project aims at producing scientific evidence through innovations and technologies that can be used by smallholder farmers to increase productivity and build climate resilience.
“We are delighted to Host his Excellency Mr. Paul-Bertrand Barets, and reaffirm our commitment to Zimbabwe`s vision for a resilient food secure nation, said Dr. Pierre Grard, CIRAD in Zimbabwe Deputy Regional. “Our collaboration with the French embassy focuses on scaling climate smart agricultural technologies and empowering farmers with the knowledge and practices that see them producing better for themselves.”
The discussions highlighted the importance of expanding research partnerships and adopting advanced agricultural technologies. This visit also marks a significant milestone in the partnership between RAIZ and the French government, reinforcing a shared commitment to agricultural transformation.
His Excellency, Excellency Mr. Paul-Bertrand Barets, said “the RAIZ project is a great example of how France supports agricultural innovation and climate resilience in Zimbabwe. This is also impressive that this is a unique initiative in Africa, with no equivalent”.
“Agriculture is the backbone of our economy, and through strategic investments, we are enhancing productivity and empowering our farmers,” said Dr Mashoko Grey, Raiz Project Manager, added.
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