Zimbabwe has cemented its regional leadership in crop genetic resources following a high-level courtesy call by the SADC Plant Genetic Resources Centre on the Permanent Secretary in the Miniztry of Lands and Rural Develpment, Professor Obert Jiri, in Harare, yesterday.
The engagement officially launched a strategic mission running from 13 to 17 April 2026 aimed at strengthening regional coordination, policy alignment and technical cooperation in crop genetic resources management across SADC member states.
The discussions focused on resource mobilisation, skills development and institutional collaboration, with emphasis on strengthening cooperation to safeguard agricultural biodiversity in the face of climate change and food security challenges.
The SADC delegation commended Zimbabwe’s progress through the National Genebank, particularly in germplasm conservation, community seed systems and agricultural research.
“The National Genebank reflects strong technical capacity and commitment to conserving plant genetic resources for future generations,” said a SADC Plant Genetic Resources Centre official.
The delegation noted that Zimbabwe’s work in seed systems and research continues to strengthen regional knowledge sharing and resilience in agriculture.
Speaking during the engagement, Professor Obert Jiri said Zimbabwe remains committed to regional cooperation and sustainable agricultural development.
“Our priority is to ensure that plant genetic resources are conserved and utilised to support food and nutrition security for Zimbabwe and the wider SADC region,” he said.
He added that continued investment in research and institutional capacity remains critical to agricultural resilience.
The engagement also highlighted progress towards Zimbabwe attaining Article 15 status under the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture, which would enable access to the Crop Trust Endowment Fund.
“This will strengthen conservation efforts and enhance participation in global agricultural biodiversity mechanisms,” he said.
Stakeholders expressed optimism that the mission will deepen cooperation and strengthen regional frameworks for genetic resources management.
Zimbabwe continues to position itself as a key driver in building a resilient and sustainable foundation for agriculture and food security in the region.
