Online Reporter
Gibson Mhaka recently in Maphisa, [email protected]
THE Agricultural and Rural Development Authority (Arda) Antelope Estate in Maphisa, Matobo District, Matabeleland South, is bracing for a bumper harvest this season, with maize yields projected to exceed 3 700 tonnes — a contribution expected to significantly boost national grain reserves.
The estate is being hailed as a model of agricultural excellence, playing a pivotal role in supporting Government efforts to strengthen food security and nutrition in line with the national target of achieving an upper-middle-income economy by 2030.
In an interview last Friday, Arda Antelope Estate farm manager Mr Hilton Thomas expressed optimism about the current summer crop, noting that the estate is on track to exceed standard yield expectations.
“The crop is looking very promising, and we are optimistic about achieving a yield of eight tonnes or more per hectare. When you calculate the numbers, it adds up to a significant overall yield for the season,” said Mr Thomas.
The estate has strategically utilised its land primarily for intensive grain production while diversifying into specialised seed and oilseed crops to strengthen the national agricultural value chain.
A substantial portion of the 718 hectares under irrigation has been dedicated to commercial maize.
With the crop showing strong performance, management expects a high-efficiency yield of at least eight tonnes per hectare, bringing the projected commercial maize output to approximately 3 700 tonnes.
Beyond grain production, Arda Antelope is playing a key role in national seed security by allocating 90 hectares to seed maize production for Seed Co.
This ensures the estate not only contributes to immediate food supplies but also supports future planting seasons.
“In addition to commercial grain, we are producing seed maize across 90 hectares for Seed Co, as well as silage making,” Mr Thomas said.
Further diversification includes 30 hectares under soya beans, which are also performing well and expected to be ready for harvest in early April.
Mr Thomas said the target yield for soya beans is three tonnes per hectare, contributing an anticipated 90 tonnes to national supply.
The estate’s progress is underpinned by smooth logistical and market arrangements. Mr Thomas said they are operating under firm contracts with major national partners.
“We currently have agreements in place with Arda, Seed Co, and National Foods Limited. So far, the process has been seamless with no major challenges. We have been very fortunate that everything is running smoothly,” he said.
As part of ongoing efforts to strengthen provincial self-sufficiency, the estate is pursuing expansion to increase its footprint in the Matabeleland South region. Last year, the facility added a 40 hectare centre pivot, and plans are in place to install six additional pivots in the future.
Mr Thomas stressed that these expansion plans are aligned with Government calls to enhance national food security and nutrition.
“Food security is a primary pillar of Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030, and we are committed to strengthening our footprint here. We have a fantastic dam on-site, and our priority is ensuring it has the capacity to support this expansion,” Mr Thomas said.
The high-yield output at Antelope Estate is becoming a cornerstone for the province, demonstrating that with efficient irrigation and sound management, the region can shift from a food-deficit area to a major contributor to the national grain basket.
derick.khumalo