By Brandon Moss

The European Union has launched the second phase of its flagship regional agriculture initiative—STOSAR II—in Zimbabwe, in partnership with the Government of Zimbabwe, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), and the Southern African Development Community (SADC). With a €10 million investment under the DeSIRA programme, the project aims to transform agricultural systems across the 16 SADC Member States between 2025 and 2028.

Building on the achievements of STOSAR I (2018–2024), the new phase will enhance agricultural data systems, strengthen plant and animal health, and promote inclusive value chains that empower women, youth, and smallholder farmers.

“STOSAR II will help knit together the region’s efforts,” said Sara Piccoli, Programme Manager for Agriculture, Environment and Trade at the EU Delegation to Zimbabwe. “It’s about improving information sharing, protecting against cross-border pests and diseases, and ensuring that smallholders are part of the opportunities created.”

Strategic Focus in Zimbabwe

In Zimbabwe, STOSAR II will concentrate on four priority areas:

• Upgrading agricultural information systems to support evidence-based policymaking
• Reinforcing plant and animal health systems to unlock trade and market access
• Enhancing food and nutrition security monitoring through early warning mechanisms
• Promoting inclusive value chains that support climate-smart agribusiness for women, youth, and SMEs

These efforts align with Zimbabwe’s national agricultural development goals and SADC’s Regional Agricultural Policy and RISDP 2020–2030. The project also aims to harmonise regional approaches to agricultural health, nutrition, and trade—facilitating cross-border cooperation and resilience.

A Roadmap for Regional Transformation

The two-day launch event in Harare convened stakeholders from government, FAO, SADC, the EU, and technical experts to validate national workplans and co-develop an implementation roadmap. This participatory approach ensures that Zimbabwe’s agricultural systems are equipped to manage transboundary challenges and contribute meaningfully to regional food security.

The EU reaffirmed its commitment to supporting inclusive, sustainable, and resilient food systems that benefit farmers, communities, and future generations across Southern Africa.