FAO Zimbabwe marks FAO@80 with partners, celebrating decades of shared impact

Harare, Zimbabwe: FAO Zimbabwe brought together government officials, development partners, the UN family, civil society and the private sector to mark the 80th anniversary of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and to reflect on over 40 years of partnership supporting Zimbabwe’s agrifood systems.

The event highlighted how collaboration has strengthened communities, advanced climate resilience, and supported national efforts to modernize agriculture.

Opening the celebration, FAO Subregional Coordinator for Southern Africa and FAO Representative in Zimbabwe, Patrice Talla, underscored the purpose of the gathering. “Today is more than a celebration; it is an opportunity to reflect on eight decades of collective action against hunger and malnutrition, to reaffirm the essential role of partnership, and to recommit ourselves to bold innovation and climate-smart agriculture,” he said.

He emphasized the central role of collaboration in FAO work in Zimbabwe since 1984. “These achievements are not FAO’s alone; they are the result of true collaboration, shared commitment and collective impact across agrifood systems.”

Government: FAO as a long-standing partner in agricultural transformation

Representing the Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, the CEO of ARDA, Tinotenda Mhiko, thanked FAO for its longstanding support to national priorities.

“Zimbabwe values FAO as a trusted partner. Since FAO established its presence in 1984, the Organization has supported food security, climate resilience, livestock health, sustainable natural resource management and emergency response,” he said.

He noted how coordinated action has contributed to progress. From the Pfumvudza/Intwasa conservation agriculture programme reaching more than 3 million households to national investments in irrigation, mechanization and digital agriculture.

Looking ahead, he stressed the importance of shared responsibility. “Feeling united by the bond of collaboration is not only a beautiful ideal, but a resolute call to action. Partnership is key to building a food-secure and prosperous Zimbabwe.”

United Nations: FAO work leading the agrifood systems transformation is changing lives across Zimbabwe

UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator Edward Kallon spoke of FAO visible impact in communities across the country.

“FAO work is not abstract. It is real. It is visible. And it is changing lives,” he said.

He shared firsthand impressions from visits to drought-affected districts, irrigation schemes rehabilitated after Cyclone Idai, and young agripreneurs embracing technology. “These moments have stayed with me, a child better nourished, a farmer better equipped, a community more resilient, and a country better prepared for the future.”

He praised FAO’s leadership within the UN system. “Across the UN system, FAO continues to be a pillar of collaboration. These collaborations embody the true meaning of One UN. United action for people and planet.”

Looking ahead: partnership as the engine of progress

Speakers highlighted that the challenges facing Zimbabwe’s agriculture. Climate variability, economic pressures and global shocks, underscore the need for strong, coordinated partnerships.

The Government’s address called for investment and innovation: “To unlock the full potential of our agricultural sector, we call for greater private sector investment, continued development partner support and sustained cooperation with FAO to scale science-based, inclusive and resilient agrifood solutions,” said Tinotenda Mhiko.

Patrice Talla concluded with a forward-looking message, “FAO@80 is a reminder that our journey is far from over. Feeling united by the bond of collaboration is a call to action.”