Harare,  (New Ziana) – The presidential agricultural input scheme is among a host of initiatives that have helped to increase cotton production, boosting incomes and hope to farming communities across the country.

Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development permanent secretary, Obert Jiri made these remarks at the World Cotton Day commemorations held in Harare on Thursday under the theme: “Cotton – The Fabric of our Lives.”

Jiri said the theme for this year’s commemoration is a powerful reminder that cotton is far more than a commodity.

“It is a symbol of resilience, creativity, and opportunity. From the smallholder farmer in Gokwe to the textile manufacturer in Harare, cotton connects us – rural and urban, agriculture and industry, tradition and innovation.

“The adoption of Pfumvudza/Intwasa and climate-proofed agriculture is enhancing our sustainability. We are not just growing cotton, we are growing it smarter and more resiliently. Our goal is to restore Zimbabwe’s reputation as a leading producer of high-quality cotton and ensure that farmers benefit meaningfully from their labour,” he said.

Jiri acknowledged the challenges that are being faced by the cotton industry and reiterated that the Government will remain steadfast in the implementation of policies that work in stakeholders’ favour.

He said: “We acknowledge the challenges facing the cotton industry. Climate change threatens our yields, market volatility tests our resilience, and competition for land is a constant reality. Together, through collaboration, innovation, and inclusivity, we can strengthen every link of the cotton value chain – from seed to fabric.”

Cotton remains one of Zimbabwe’s most strategic crops, contributing to employment creation, rural development, industrialisation, and export earnings. Its value chain stretches across multiple sectors, making it a key driver of inclusive growth and a vital enabler of Vision 2030 and the National Development Strategy-1 (NDS-1).

New Ziana