Zimbabwe to unveil AI farming revolution

Zimbabwe is set to unveil a major agricultural transformation agenda anchored on artificial intelligence, digital farming systems and strengthened seed sovereignty at the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF 2026), which begins today in Bulawayo.

The 66th edition of the expo runs from April 20 to 25 under the theme "Connected Economies, Competitive Industries", focusing on regional integration, industrialisation and technology-driven economic growth.

Authorities say the agricultural showcase will demonstrate how artificial intelligence, drone technology and digital data systems are being integrated into farming to improve productivity, pest control, crop monitoring and extension services.

Permanent Secretary in the Ministries of Agriculture, Mechanisation and Water Resources Development, and Lands and Rural Development, Obert Jiri, said the country is shifting toward smart farming systems that enhance efficiency across the value chain.

"We are going to showcase digitalisation and modernisation of our agriculture, including artificial intelligence tools that help in pest detection and improving efficiency," he said.

The Government's strategy includes expanding irrigation infrastructure, strengthening climate resilience systems and promoting "ecological tailoring", where crop production is aligned with soil and climate suitability using data-driven planning tools.

A major focus of the transformation is seed sovereignty, aimed at reducing reliance on imported seed and strengthening local production systems.

The Tobacco Research Board (TRB), trading as Kutsaga, will play a central role at the exhibition as it showcases its tissue culture and certified seed systems, now expanding beyond tobacco into potatoes and horticultural crops.

Kutsaga chief executive officer Frank Magama said the institution is evolving into a broader agricultural innovation hub.

"Kutsaga remains the cornerstone of Zimbabwe's tobacco industry and a leading force in agricultural research, innovation and product development," he said.

The organisation's tissue culture technology is being used to multiply disease-free planting material, improve yields and reduce crop losses, while its seed potato programme is expected to reduce import dependency and support both smallholder and commercial farmers.

Officials say the push toward seed sovereignty is also critical for boosting competitiveness in export markets and strengthening national food security.

The Government has also modernised agricultural extension services, with more than 6,000 officers now using digital tools to improve farmer engagement and information delivery across rural areas.

As investors and development partners gather in Bulawayo, authorities say ZITF 2026 will position agriculture not just as a production sector, but as a technology-driven investment frontier aligned with Zimbabwe's industrialisation agenda.