Belarus has expressed strong admiration for the leadership of President Emmerson Mnangagwa, particularly applauding the significant strides Zimbabwe has made in agricultural development.

Central to this progress is the growing partnership between ZimbabweZimbabwe and Belarus, which has seen the provision of modern tractors and other essential agricultural equipment aimed at transforming productivity and ensuring food security.

Speaking during a farewell courtesy visit, Ambassador Gen. Ihar Marshalau of Belarus, who is concluding his diplomatic tenure in Zimbabwe, highlighted the remarkable achievements realized under President Mnangagwa’s administration.

The Ambassador commended the government’s commitment to modernizing agriculture, noting that the mechanization programme supported by Belarus has empowered farmers and revitalized rural economies.

The visit to Munhumutapa Offices this morning symbolized not only the end of Ambassador Marshalau’s service but also the strengthening of bilateral ties between the two nations.

Ambassador Gen. Ihar Marshalau of Belarus during proceedings at Munhumutapa Offices, marking the conclusion of his diplomatic tenure while celebrating strengthened Zimbabwe–Belarus cooperation in agricultural development.
(Image Credit: Abel Karowangoro)

Belarus remains proud to partner with Zimbabwe in its journey toward agricultural self-sufficiency and economic growth.

Ambassador Marshalau emphasized that the collaboration reflects a shared vision of sustainable development, expressing confidence that the foundations laid will continue to yield positive results.

Belarus stands ready to support Zimbabwe’s ongoing efforts to build a resilient and productive agricultural sector.

Everisto Zhuwao

His Excellency President Dr. E.D. Mnangagwa is set to officially commission the Romsley Irrigation Scheme in Makoni District, Manicaland Province, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s drive towards rural industrialisation.

The US$4.5 million project is a centerpiece of the government’s strategy to ensure national food security. Spanning 384 hectares, the scheme directly benefits 315 local farmers, notably including 97 youths who are being transitioned into commercial agriculture.

The technical overhaul of the scheme is extensive. Infrastructure upgrades include the installation of 24 state-of-the-art centre pivots, the construction of an 18-kilometre canal, and a new 8.2-kilometre power line to ensure a consistent energy supply.

These enhancements allow for year-round production, insulating local farmers against the effects of climate change.

“This is not just about farming; it is about creating a viable rural economy,” government officials noted ahead of the event. The project is expected to trigger a wave of job creation and significantly increase household incomes across the district.

Looking ahead, the government plans to expand the scheme to 668 hectares, further cementing Makoni District’s role as a vital contributor to the national breadbasket.

The commissioning underscores a nationwide push to revitalise irrigation as a primary engine for economic growth and agricultural sovereignty.

A total of US$25 million has been allocated to the Munhumutapa Challenge Cup over the next five years, with US$5 million per year set aside to support men’s, women’s, junior (U14 & U16), 5-A-Side, and beach football competitions.

Speaking at the tournament launch, Emmerson Mnangagwa emphasised inclusivity, saying: “No province, no district, no talent must be left behind.”

He welcomed the joint efforts between the Ministry of Sport, the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education, and ZIFA, noting that the collaboration will strengthen football within the education system.

“The inclusion of women’s football is crucial,” the President added, highlighting that the initiative will give girls in both rural and urban areas equal opportunities to develop their talents.

He encouraged the tournament to serve as a bridge connecting villages to cities and wished the Munhumutapa Challenge Cup every success in its mission to nurture football talent nationwide.