Comprehensive Exit and Sustainability Strategy for Zimbabwe Emergency Food Production Project Takes Shape

Strategic Insights -

The Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO), in collaboration with the Government and implementing partners, is developing a comprehensive exit and sustainability strategy for the Zimbabwe Emergency Food Production Project (ZEFPP). The initiative, which has successfully reached 82,000 farming households with inputs and extension services focused on climate-smart agriculture, is transitioning into its final phase and will conclude in December 2025. Key stakeholders, including the African Development Bank (AfDB) and implementing partners, have gathered at a four-day workshop in Kadoma to discuss the project's legacy and ensure its positive outcomes thrive long after implementation ends.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Zimbabwe Emergency Food Production Project (ZEFPP) has successfully reached 82,000 farming households with inputs and extension services focused on climate-smart agriculture.
  • The project is transitioning into its final phase and will conclude in December 2025.
  • A comprehensive exit and sustainability strategy is being developed to ensure the project's legacy and secure its positive outcomes beyond project completion.
  • The strategy aims to foster accountability, mitigate risks, and strengthen community trust.
  • Key partners, including the African Development Bank (AfDB), Business Development, Markets and Trade (BDMT), and the Crop Breeding Institute (CBI), are involved in the development of the strategy.
  • The workshop in Kadoma has brought together diverse stakeholders to ensure inclusive and transparent participation in the project's exit strategy.
  • The Government of Zimbabwe is committed to preserving and scaling up the gains made under ZEFPP.
  • Implementing partners, such as the Crop Breeding Institute (CBI), expect to contribute to a strategy that strengthens institutional capacity and ensures continuity of impact.

Statistics:

  • 82,000 farming households reached with inputs and extension services focused on climate-smart agriculture.
  • Project duration: 2 years.
  • Lasting impact beyond project completion: emphasized by ZEFPP Project Coordinator.
  • December 2025: project conclusion date.
  • 4-day workshop in Kadoma: duration of the meeting where the comprehensive exit and sustainability strategy is being developed.

Sources:

  • The Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO)
  • The Government of Zimbabwe
  • Implementing partners, including the African Development Bank (AfDB), Business Development, Markets and Trade (BDMT), Crop Breeding Institute (CBI), and others.