Online ReporterPrecious Manomano
Herald Reporter
ZIMBABWE is poised for a satisfactory agricultural season, with crops planted on an unprecedented four million hectares set for harvest.
The surge in the area put under crops reflects the country’s commitment to combat hunger and enhance food security.
Government has rolled out agricultural transformation programmes aimed at benefitting all farmers.
The initiatives have significantly increased rural incomes and fostered development.
The Agricultural Recovery and Growth Plan, introduced in 2020, has reversed negative trends in farming, resulting in expected bumper harvests across various crops, including maize, traditional grains, cassava, and sweet potatoes.
A crops, livestock and fisheries assessment (CLAFA-1) 2024/25 summer season) conducted by the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries and Rural Development reveals that this season indicates a remarkable yield across all crops.
In terms of maize production, Mashonaland West leads with 382 926 hectares planted, followed closely by Midlands with 382 886 hectares and Manicaland with 274 126 hectares.
Approximately 26 902 hectares were cultivated in urban areas.
The Pfumvudza programme has seen maize hectarage rise to 504 136, a 13 percent increase from last year.
The area under sorghum grew 7 percent to 434 374 hectares, while pearl millet saw a notable 29 percent increase. Irish potato planting surged by 58 percent to 9 839 hectares, reflecting self-sufficiency in table potatoes, though seed potato production remains a challenge.
For soyabeans, the area increased to 40 111 hectares, while groundnut sharply decreased to 223 729 hectares.
Sweet potato planting jumped 62 percent to 20 108 hectares, and cassava cultivation rose to 76 hectares, up 65 percent.
Farmers expressed high hopes for this season, bolstered by favourable rainfall and enhanced farming practices.
Dr Shadreck Makombe, president of the Zimbabwe Commercial Farmers’ Union, emphasised good preparation and agronomic practices among farmers.
“Farmers were well prepared and well informed for this season. We have also received good rains. There is no doubt that this season we will make it.
“Farmers were practicing good agronomic practices which are crucial in farming,” said Dr Makombe.
Zimbabwe Indigenous Women Farmers Association Trust president, Mrs Depinah Nkomo, noted significant progress in planting efforts.
“The future of maize is promising, thanks to private player participation, which is critical in boosting farming.
“The future is bright if farmers continue to be paid in foreign currency. We are optimistic that next year we can achieve our targets if private players partner with the Government in farming,” she said.
