Prof Jiri Hails Poultry Sector’s Role in Rural Transformation

By Edward Makuzva

HARARE — Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development Permanent Secretary Professor Dr. Obert Jiri has applauded the poultry industry for its significant contribution to rural livelihoods, household nutrition, and national food security, saying the sector embodies the spirit of Zimbabwe’s agricultural transformation and Vision 2030.

Speaking at the 10th anniversary celebrations of the Indigenous Poultry Producers Association held at the Capital, Prof Jiri said the programme aligns with the ministry’s agricultural and rural transformation strategy, which seeks to empower communities through sustainable production systems.

“In developing our vision, we activated an agricultural and rural transformation strategy whose objective is to ensure people have access to nutritious food and sustainable livelihoods.

The improvement in poultry genetics that we now see in the country is a direct result of this association’s tireless efforts,” Prof Jiri explained.

Prof Jiri noted that partnerships between farmers, government agencies, and the Standards Association of Zimbabwe have ensured that the poultry sector maintains high quality and safety standards.

“The standards that have been developed point to a well-managed programme.

We must continue on this path, ensuring that our poultry breeds are adapted to local conditions and meet nutritional needs,” he added.

Highlighting the life-changing impact of poultry farming in rural communities, Prof Jiri shared moving examples of individuals who have transformed their lives through the sector.“

I met a young girl who pays her own school fees through poultry sales, and a woman who once worked in gold mining but now earns a living from poultry production.

These are the real stories of empowerment that define our rural development agenda,” he said.

The Permanent Secretary emphasized that indigenous chicken production is not merely about increasing output but about building resilience, improving household nutrition, and reducing poverty.

“By strengthening indigenous chicken production and promoting free-range systems, we are addressing food and nutrition security at household level while promoting income generation.

Our goal is to achieve protein self-sufficiency as a nation,” Prof Jiri said.

He also stressed the importance of access to finance for smallholder farmers, urging financial institutions to play a stronger role in supporting poultry enterprises.

“Financing is key. Farmers must be linked to funding opportunities so that they can establish and sustain viable businesses. The success of this association over the past decade shows what we can achieve nationally when we work together,” he said.

Prof Jiri drew parallels between the growth of the poultry association and Zimbabwe’s broader national journey towards an empowered, upper middle-income economy by 2030.

“The journey of this association—from humble beginnings to a thriving community of poultry producers—mirrors our national story. It shows the power of unity, innovation, and entrepreneurship,” said Prof Jiri.

As the Indigenous Poultry Producers Association marks ten years of existence, Prof Jiri challenged members to remain committed to excellence and sustainability.

“Let us take this business seriously—keep records, adopt best practices, and continue innovating. The next ten years should see the indigenous poultry sector becoming a shining example of a viable, competitive, and inclusive agricultural enterprise,” he said.

He concluded by invoking the national philosophy of “Kuenda Kumunda, Kuenda Kumberi” a call to collective effort and progress.“Let us go to the field and move forward together. With dedication and collaboration, we can build a future where agriculture remains the backbone of our economy and the pride of our nation,” said Prof Jiri.