Online Reporter
Herald Reporters
The Grain Millers Association of Zimbabwe (GMAZ) and the Agricultural and Rural Development Authority (ARDA) have entered into an agreement aimed at boosting local maize production.
The agreement will see the production and supply of 200 000 tonnes of Non-GMO White Maize during the 2025/26 summer season, which is expected to enhance food security and reduce the nation’s reliance on imports.
Under the agreement, ARDA will be responsible for cultivating and delivering maize to GMAZ members between April 1, 2026 and March 30, 2027.
Deliveries are set to be made to key urban centres, including Harare, Bulawayo and Mutare, with pricing established at US$355 per tonne.
Speaking before the signing ceremony held in Harare, ARDA’s operations director Mr Shingirai Jenah said this will boost local production.
“This will go a long way in catapulting local production and productivity, thereby eliminating imports of these commodities which have been draining our much-needed and scarce foreign currency,” he said.
GMAZ vice chairperson Mr Chipo Nheta said the partnership marked a decisive step towards strengthening national food security.
“It underscores our commitment to sourcing high-quality, Non-GMO maize locally while supporting Zimbabwe’s farmers and the industrial value chain,” he said.
Mr Nheta highlighted the urgency of structured domestic production, noting that maize consumption in Zimbabwe was rising faster than regional averages, making it more vital than ever to secure local supply chains.
