The Forest Research and Training Division is responsible for conducting research and forestry training across Zimbabwe’s entire forestry sector. Its outputs include knowledge generation, improved seed production, ecological understanding of tree growth and the production of skilled forestry personnel — ensuring the sustainable management and utilisation of trees, woodlands and forests.
A Division of Two Wings
The R&T Division operates through two complementary operational wings — one focused on advancing forestry science, the other on developing the people who will deploy it.
Research Wing
Headquartered at the Forest Research Centre (FRC) in Harare, supported by a Technical Services Unit.
A nationwide network of satellite research sites is also maintained.
Training Wing
Two inclusive colleges serving the human resource needs of Zimbabwe and the wider SADC region.
Zimbabwe College of Forestry
Forest Resources Management
Forest Industries Training Centre
Primary Wood Processing
- Diploma and Certificate level programmes
- Short courses for skill upgrading of industry professionals
Programmes Offered
From entry-level certificates to senior diplomas — all delivered with hands-on field training.
Forestry
Wood Technology
Forestry
Saw-Doctoring
Industry Professionals
Decades of forestry science, on the ground.
A 6.5× increase in trained professionals from 134 (1940–1979) to 868 (1980–2012) — a transformation in national forestry capacity.
Five Core Responsibilities
The Division’s mandate spans research, technology development, knowledge dissemination, formal training and continuous professional development.
Undertake cost-effective, client-oriented research
For the national forestry sector.
Develop technologies
For managing both natural and plantation forests.
Disseminate research findings
For practical application in the field.
Train and equip skilled personnel
At Diploma and Certificate levels.
Offer in-service short training courses
Client-focused upgrading for industry professionals.
Five research areas shaping the future
Tree Breeding
Seed Physiology
Plantation & Indigenous Silviculture
Entomology & Pathology
Biometrics, Mapping & Inventory
Research has been the cornerstone of Zimbabwe’s forestry development — and remains critical to solving commercial, social and environmental challenges. Through participation in regional and international research initiatives, Zimbabwe continues to contribute to global forestry solutions.