Introduction
Agriculture remains the backbone of Zimbabwe’s economy, employing over 60% of the population. However, the sector faces significant challenges including erratic rainfall, soil degradation, market access barriers, and post-harvest losses. ICT and Agritech innovations are stepping in to modernize farming, improve productivity, and enhance resilience.
Why Agritech Matters in Zimbabwe
With a growing population and increased pressure on food systems, digital agriculture is critical. ICT helps farmers access real-time data, reduce waste, and improve decision-making at every stage of the agricultural cycle—from planting to marketing.
Major Agritech Trends in Zimbabwe
- Weather Forecasting and Climate Apps: Tools like Agritex Weather Services and AccuWeather offer location-based rainfall predictions, helping farmers decide when to plant and harvest.
- Digital Marketplaces: Platforms like E-Mkambo allow farmers to access live market prices, connect with buyers, and receive agronomic advice via SMS.
- IoT & Sensor Technology: Though still nascent, local startups are experimenting with IoT sensors that measure soil moisture and send alerts to farmers, optimizing irrigation and reducing water waste.
- Mobile Extension Services: Apps and SMS services now provide farmers with real-time tips on crop diseases, fertilizer application, and climate-smart agriculture.
- Drone Technology: High-resolution drone imagery is beginning to be used for land mapping, crop health monitoring, and insurance assessment.
Benefits of ICT in Farming
- Timely Information: Access to weather, market, and pest updates
- Increased Productivity: Better crop management and use of resources
- Financial Inclusion: Mobile-based credit and micro-insurance services
- Reduced Post-Harvest Losses: Improved logistics and cold chain monitoring
- Data-Driven Decision Making: Helps farmers plan better and reduce risk
Key Platforms & Startups
- E-Mkambo: Digital advisory and marketplace platform for farmers
- uSave: Enables smallholder farmers to access affordable farming inputs and save towards future purchases via mobile payments
- AgriShare: Equipment-sharing platform that connects farmers with underutilized tractors and other machinery
- MobCrop: A mobile app that offers AI-driven pest and disease identification based on photos
Government & NGO Support
- Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development supports pilot e-extension programs.
- NGOs like SNV Zimbabwe and Practical Action are equipping farmers with digital tools and training in climate-resilient farming techniques.
- Development partners are funding rural broadband projects to increase digital access.
Challenges in Adoption
- Limited Digital Literacy: Many smallholder farmers still struggle with smartphone and app usage
- Infrastructure Barriers: Rural areas often lack reliable mobile networks and electricity
- Affordability: Smartphones, sensors, and internet packages can be cost-prohibitive
- Data Privacy Concerns: Ensuring that farmers’ data is protected and used ethically
Recommendations for Scaling Agritech
- Public-Private Partnerships – Collaborations between government, startups, and telecom providers to reduce data costs and increase coverage
- Farmer Training Programs – Nationwide ICT and smartphone literacy campaigns
- Localized Solutions – Platforms in Shona, Ndebele, and other local languages
- Subsidized Equipment Schemes – Reduce the cost of smartphones and smart sensors
- Inclusive Financing – Provide mobile loans or leasing options for digital tools
Conclusion
ICT in agriculture is not just a trend—it’s a lifeline for Zimbabwe’s food security. By investing in Agritech innovations, training farmers, and improving digital infrastructure, Zimbabwe can create a more resilient and efficient agricultural sector that supports livelihoods, reduces poverty, and feeds the nation sustainably.