eBusiness Weekly
One of Zimbabwe’s oldest companies, Zimplow Limited, turns 85 years old this year and to mark this milestone, our Deputy Editor Kudzanai Sharara, sat down with CEO Vimbayi Nyakudya to talk about the journey so far and the years ahead.
KS: What were the defining moments and key innovations that shaped the company’s 85-year journey?
VN: From 1939 what has remained true for Zimplow is that we have been inspiring generations through innovation. From the Rhodesia plough in 1939 to offering AI-driven equipment solutions in 2024. We have grown in strides and bounds:
Some of our key defining moments:
In 2006 Zimplow became more than an agriculture equipment solutions company, by acquiring CT Bolts a company that offers fastener solutions to the mining, agriculture and construction industries.
From 2012 we went full throttle, offering mining and infrastructure equipment solutions through Tractive Power Holdings
In 2020, the acquisition of Tren Tyre and Scania entering the logistics and automotive industry where we have created a world of mobility and championed the shift towards sustainable transport systems in Zimbabwe
In 2023 we listed on the VFEX, launched smallholder mechanisation implements, opened new businesses and branches continuous growth and innovation.
KS: How have your farming implements evolved to meet the changing needs of agriculture over the decades? (e.g., sustainability, precision farming, etc.)
VN: A transition has been made from the manual hoe to the standard ox-drawn plough for small-scale farmers — farmers would weed with hoes. To alleviate the laborious tasks, cultivators were implemented, and ridgers were designed to assist those cultivating potatoes and tobacco. Multicrop shellers were created to meet the post-harvest needs of groundnuts. In 2023, we launched an improved precision agriculture system, a direct seeder.
Moreover, we employ a comprehensive agricultural methodology that accommodates both large-scale and small-scale farmers. Our agriculture equipment includes auto guidance and GPS systems for tractors and implements.
These systems are currently being utilised to record, analyse, and monitor applications, allowing for the correction of imbalances in subsequent seasons. Combiners, for instance, are capable of performing field mapping during harvesting and can identify nutrient deficiencies, enabling the farmer to make the necessary adjustments for subsequent planting.
Bigger machinery is being developed to have quick turn around and allow for maximum use of land within the shortest window. For example, land pre equipment used after maize harvesting into wheat.
KS: What were the biggest challenges the company overcame in its history, and what lessons were learned?
VN: Addressing the impact of the cessation of Barzem operations, following the termination notice, the company’s leadership and Board took the strategic decision to focus on preserving the balance sheet. We responded by launching TPS to cater to the needs of our valued customers who own earth-moving equipment.
What we discovered was that the business landscape can be highly unpredictable, and a team must remain flexible and adaptable to navigate through these changes. We had to make quick decisions to prioritise important projects that were already in progress, such as factory expansion and the introduction of Valmec second tier alternative equipment solutions business unit.
KS: How is the company leveraging technology to develop the next generation of farming implements? (e.g., AI, automation, robotics)
VN: Factory capacitation project at Mealie Brand will enable efficient manufacturing processes resulting in a reliable supply with shorter lead times. This project will mean saving on labour and ultimately help lower the overall cost of the product.
Our factory will lead to more products being crafted with utmost care and attention to detail, ensuring their durability and longevity for Zimbabweans. We strive to provide exceptional value for your investment, while also helping you minimise the overall cost of ownership.
We have adopted the various use of different automated tools to generate intelligence in the value chain of product development and value engineering, the process includes:
Leveraging AI to in mining information on product design intelligence
Utilising CAD to model conceptual designs
Employing simulation applications on design software to simulate kinetics and dynamics of machine components
Implementing companywide online platforms for seamless electronic data interchange.
Adoption of computerised machinery (vs mechanically controlled machinery) in manufacturing operations
KS: How are your implements contributing to sustainable farming practices? (e.g., soil health, water conservation, resource efficiency)
VN: Our implements are carefully crafted to support sustainable farming practices and protect the health of the soil and water resources.
We prioritise resource efficiency in our designs. Our smallholder product range designed to complement government efforts to the small holder farmer, we have supported them by providing tried and tested smallholder mechanisation solutions to Pfumvudza.
We have been prioritising the education of farmers on the use of equipment such as Chisel ploughs and rippers, which help preserve the soil and improve its water retention capacity during droughts.
Soil health. We have been able to preserve the health of the soil through an enumerated list of Conservation Agriculture Technologies such as No till planters that allow direct planting into the soil thereby avoiding land preparation. This improves soil biomass by improving nutrient uptake and protects erosive effect of rain and wind by fixing the soil structure with the roots.
Resource efficiency- Our product designs offer better and improved designs for example our implements can plant, apply fertilisers and chemicals with precision, and hence save on the cost of inputs.
Our machines offer the capabilities to match user and field requirements vs unregulated, uncalibrated manual systems. This ultimately leads to reduced power consumption per hectare through motorised power.
Our mechanisation value chain vertical integration strategy ensures sustainable access to mechanisation products through local manufacturing which is key to economic growth and resuscitation.
KS: What are your plans for expanding your international presence and catering to diverse agricultural needs?
VN: Our company has successfully expanded its reach to six countries in the region, and we are committed to sharing the successful Zimbabwe experience as an agro-based nation. Our aim is to establish ourselves as the company of choice for discussing matters pertaining to mechanisation, catering to both small-scale farmers and large-scale entities (one-stop shop). As a company, our focus is on key sectors of the economy such as agriculture, mining, and automotive. Our goal is to strengthen our presence and expand our reach in the region.
Our company is dedicated to constantly improving our product offerings to meet the diverse needs of our global customers. We are committed to revolutionising the agricultural mechanisation industry in Africa by introducing innovative technologies tailored to specific markets in the region.
KS: How does the company contribute to the development and well-being of farming communities? (e.g., training programs, partnerships)
VN: Our focus is on building strong communities through farmer training and fostering engagement with farmer-oriented institutions in Zimbabwe. Our goal is to enhance farmer product knowledge and improve the farming process through collaboration product development and training with various organisations, including farmer groups, farmers’ unions, agriculture colleges, research institutions, and NGOs. We also provide apprenticeship training through attachments for university students this offers students the chance to gain hands-on experience building in them valuable skills and expertise.
KS: What is your vision for the company’s role in shaping the future of agriculture in the next 25 years?
VN: We aim to continuously contribute towards Improving on-farm value chain processing technologies through developing appropriate mechanisation systems and Integrating modern technologies in agricultural mechanisation systems by Introducing novel irrigation technologies (small to large scale)
KS: What are some of the most significant milestones and achievements you’re celebrating during this anniversary year?
VN: Unwavering commitment to progress and advancement, Inspiring Generations through Innovation.
We established ourselves and continued to grow despite numerous obstacles; we made numerous advances in the past year and continue to innovate and develop.
We are commemorating the completion of factory capacity projects this year, as well as the opening of the Mealie Brand facility. We have successfully secured partnerships with multiple Original Equipment Manufacturers in the earth moving equipment and logistics and infrastructure sectors.
KS: As CEO, what do you hope will be your most enduring legacy for the company and the agricultural industry?
VN: Our Mantra goes from Generation to Generation, it is, therefore, my vision to leave a legacy of having proffered sustainable mechanisation solutions that stand the test of time and adapt to the ever-changing environment.
My motto is that we continue to drive innovation as Zimplow, create sustainable industry solutions and inspire generations to come.
KS: What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs in the agricultural technology space?
VN: Before you start your journey, do your research and gain market insight. We are no longer in the medieval era harness the power of technology to address practical challenges and to make farming easier and fun.
Farming requires ongoing learning, the agri-tech industry is always changing. Stay informed about the latest research and be prepared to adjust your technology as needed. Just keep in mind that achieving success demands a combination of agricultural expertise and technological skills.
You do not have to start from Zero, Zimplow is a hub of knowledge. We have a team of highly skilled technicians who are ready to discuss with you the needs of farmers and the complexities of the supply chain.
KS: What are your thoughts on the current state of global food security and how your company can contribute to addressing it?
VN: Zimplow, we are dedicated to addressing the pressing issues of climate change and embracing technological advancements. These two problems are significant and have a significant impact on how we shape businesses.
Amidst the challenges posed by climate change, innovative minds must step up and develop sustainable solutions to address the global shortage of food. The future of leverage and growth lies in the hands of those who can create climate-smart strategies to tackle this pressing issue.
The health impacts are far-reaching, with a rise in fatalities and illnesses caused by more frequent and severe weather events like heatwaves, storms, and floods.
Additionally, there is a disruption to food systems and the overall ecosystem.
Zimplow recognises the significance of embracing technology adoption to achieve efficient, cost-effective, and timely production.
KS: What is one emerging trend in agriculture that excites you the most?
VN: Emerging reliance on technology vs natural phenomena in developing, planning and managing agricultural value chain operations.
