Online Reporter
Word From the Market
Tina Nleya
RECENT seasonal forecasts by the Meteorological Services Department have indicated an increased likelihood of El Niño conditions during the 2026/2027 agricultural season.
While the full extent of this phenomenon’s impact remains uncertain, history has shown that El Niño events are often associated with below-normal rainfall in Southern Africa, potentially affecting agricultural production, water availability and food security.
However, the most important message for farmers, agribusinesses and market players is not one of panic, but one of preparedness.
Agriculture has always been influenced by weather patterns, and successful farming has often depended on the ability to anticipate risks and adapt accordingly.
The difference today is that Zimbabwe is far better prepared than it was in previous drought cycles.
The Government, private sector players, farmers and development partners have already begun implementing measures aimed at reducing vulnerability and strengthening resilience across agricultural value chains. The emphasis must, therefore, shift from reacting to drought to proactively managing risk.
Irrigation: The foundation of agricultural resilience
One of the most significant lessons from recent years is that sustainable agricultural growth cannot rely solely on rainfall. Climate variability is becoming more frequent, making irrigation development an essential component of Zimbabwe’s agricultural future.
Recognising this reality, the Government has intensified efforts to expand irrigation infrastructure across the country.
A key intervention has been the utilisation of the grain import levy collected by the Agricultural Marketing Authority (AMA) in terms of Statutory Instrument 87 of 2025 and deposited into the Agricultural Marketing Fund (AMF).
The fund was established to support strategic agricultural development initiatives that strengthen food security and improve agricultural productivity. A significant portion of the resources collected so far has been directed towards irrigation development and rehabilitation.
To date, the fund has supported the development of approximately 850 hectares of irrigated land across various parts of the country, with additional projects expected to come on stream as more resources are mobilised. These investments are helping to create production systems that are less dependent on rainfall and more capable of sustaining agricultural output during periods of weather uncertainty.
The importance of these investments cannot be overstated.
Irrigation transforms agriculture from a seasonal activity into a more predictable business enterprise. It enables farmers to maintain production during dry spells, improve crop yields and access markets consistently throughout the year.
What does El Niño mean for agricultural markets?
From a market perspective, weather shocks can affect both supply and prices.
Reduced rainfall may result in lower production of certain rain-fed crops, particularly in areas that do not have access to irrigation.
When supplies decline, prices often increase due to shortages in the market.
While higher prices may appear beneficial to some producers, they can create challenges for consumers and downstream industries that depend on agricultural raw materials.
For this reason, maintaining production levels is critical not only for farmers but also for overall market stability.
The expansion of irrigation infrastructure is, therefore, more than an agricultural intervention; it is a market stabilisation strategy.
By ensuring that production continues even under challenging climatic conditions, irrigation helps maintain a steady flow of produce into the market, reduces volatility and supports food security.
A resilient agriculture sector contributes to a resilient economy.
Preparing for the season ahead
As Zimbabwe prepares for the upcoming season, farmers should focus on practical adaptation measures that reduce risk and maximise available resources.
Firstly, farmers are encouraged to pay close attention to seasonal forecasts and technical advisories issued by the Government and relevant institutions.
These varieties have demonstrated an ability to perform better under conditions of moisture stress and can significantly reduce production risks.
Conservation agriculture practices, mulching, water harvesting and efficient irrigation technologies can improve water use efficiency and increase productivity even when rainfall is limited.
Livestock producers should also begin making arrangements for supplementary feed and water sources ahead of the dry season.
Early planning often reduces costs and minimises losses during periods of stress.
Equally important is the need for farmers to strengthen their market orientation.
Understanding market demand and producing crops that have reliable buyers can improve profitability and reduce post-harvest losses.
Opportunities amidst challenges
While drought risks often dominate discussions around El Niño, it is important to recognise that periods of uncertainty can also create opportunities.
Farmers with access to irrigation may find increased demand for horticultural products, grains and livestock feed as market supplies tighten.
Consistent production during periods of reduced national output can translate into improved market opportunities and stronger returns for producers.
This is particularly relevant for horticulture, which continues to experience growing demand from domestic, regional and export markets.
Irrigation-supported production allows farmers to take advantage of these opportunities while maintaining quality and consistency.
The ongoing development of irrigation schemes across the country is, therefore, not merely a response to a possible El Niño event.
It is a long-term investment that guarantees food security and sustainable agricultural growth.
Looking beyond one season climate variability is increasingly becoming a permanent feature of agricultural production rather than an occasional challenge.
Consequently, resilience must become a permanent feature of agricultural planning. The investments currently being made through the AMF, alongside broader Government initiatives aimed at expanding irrigation infrastructure and strengthening agricultural systems, represent important steps towards building a more climate-smart agriculture sector.
Zimbabwe’s agriculture sector has demonstrated remarkable resilience in the past and with continued investment in irrigation, improved production systems and informed decision-making, the country is well positioned to navigate future climatic challenges while maintaining stable agricultural markets and food security.
Tina Nleya is AMA’s marketing and public relations manager. She can be contacted by email: [email protected]. Word From The Market is a column produced by AMA to promote market-driven production.
