Strategic Partnership Financing Schemes and Agriculture Productivity in Zimbabwe: A Study of Selected Provinces

Abstract

Africa is experiencing a general decline in agriculture productivity which is against a backdrop of increased global demand for food items. Zimbabwe is not spared. This has been worsened by climate change and a general decline in credit across all sectors. This calls for the need for more resources to boost agriculture productivity which has been affected by a general decline in traditional funding sources. The role of strategic partnership financing scheme is therefore worthy to explore in addressing funding challenges experienced in agriculture. This survey employed a cross sectional survey grounded on pragmatist philosophical view. The data was collected on commercial farmers from selected four administrative provinces of Mashonaland West, East, Central and Manicaland of Zimbabwe. A total of 377 questionnaires were administered and 323 were returned. Eight interviews were conducted. Data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics and conclusions drawn. A multiple regression model was fitted to ascertain the relationship among research constructs. Results show that private strategic partnership schemes were strongly associated with farm productivity. A weak association was established with state driven strategic schemes. It is therefore recommended for authorities to channel funding for agriculture through agriculture value chain. Government role should be confined to regulatory. The involvement of government of Zimbabwe resulted in inefficiencies and hijacking of resources by political elites