Agriculture Shake-Up or Cosmetic Reshuffle? Mnangagwa’s Changes Questioned – Eduzim News

Tinashe Sambiri– President Emmerson Mnangagwa has sparked criticism after restructuring the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Water, Fisheries and Rural Development, a move widely viewed as cosmetic rather than a meaningful intervention in a struggling sector.

The ministry has been split into two — the Ministry of Lands and Rural Development, and the Ministry of Agriculture, Mechanisation and Water Resources Development — raising concerns about fragmentation and lack of clear direction.

Dr. Anxious Masuka, who previously headed the combined ministry, has been reassigned to lead the Ministry of Lands and Rural Development, while former deputy minister Vangelis Peter Haritatos has been elevated to Minister of Agriculture, Mechanisation and Water Resources Development.

The changes were confirmed in a statement issued by Chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet, Dr. Martin Rushwaya on Friday, 10 March 2026.
According to the statement, “President Emmerson Mnangagwa has restructured the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Water, Fisheries and Rural Development, dividing it into two separate ministries.”

It further stated that “the reconfiguration and appointments take immediate effect,” a move critics argue reflects rushed decision-making with little clarity on how the changes will improve productivity or food security.

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