Online Reporter
Sikhulekelani Moyo, Zimpapers Business Hub
LANDS, Agriculture, Water, Fisheries and Rural Development Minister, Dr Anxious Masuka, has applauded the positive developments in the agriculture sector, saying the nation is experiencing significant growth in the production of various cereal crops and livestock.
He said this while addressing delegates at the 2026 Pre-Budget Seminar being held in Bulawayo.
Dr Masuka said the country is performing well in cereal production, a success that can be further enhanced through improved financing models.
The Minister noted that Zimbabwe has recorded remarkable progress in small grain production, which contributed only eight percent in 2018, but now accounts for 28 percent of total cereal output.
However, Dr Masuka highlighted that consumption patterns have not yet aligned with production levels, as some regions that are encouraged to grow small grains continue to face maize shortages.
“Wheat production has gone north. As of today, we are at 637 000 tonnes — a historic record for this country — and we expect to reach 1,4 million tonnes by 2030,” said Dr Masuka.
“Tobacco production has also reached record levels. So, when we judge ourselves and the Land Reform Programme, let’s judge contextually. We are doing well, but we could do better with improved resourcing and diversified financing mechanisms.
“Blueberry production has also been on the rise since the advent of the Second Republic. We are now at 12 000 tonnes, ranking fourth in the world, and we are positioning ourselves to become the second largest producer after Algeria,” he added.
Dr Masuka also noted that the livestock sector continues to grow, with milk production increasing and livestock deaths now being effectively controlled.
