Online Reporter
Theseus Shambare
THE 640 000 tonnes that have been harvested by local farmers so far represent the highest-ever yield in the country’s history, an indication that agrarian reforms have turned the corner, with Zimbabwe now well on course to become a net exporter of the cereal.
The latest milestone marks the third consecutive year of wheat self-sufficiency.
From a modest 94 685 tonnes in 2019, national output rose to approximately 468 000 tonnes in 2023, breaking a 56-year record, before climbing further to 562 091 tonnes in 2024.
This year’s highly successful season was driven by timely input distribution, improved irrigation infrastructure, mechanisation and widespread farmer participation, including smallholder farmers who previously did not grow the crop.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development Professor Obert Jiri said the coordinated effort had delivered “a new chapter in Zimbabwe’s agricultural success story”.
“We are excited because not only have we surpassed our targets, but we have set a new national record.
“Over 124 000 hectares were put under wheat and early reports show even higher yields than anticipated,” said Prof Jiri.
“We are going to end the season on Sunday (today) with about 642 000 tonnes harvested. This is unprecedented. Never in the history of Zimbabwe have we harvested over 600 000 tonnes of wheat.
“The country only requires about 360 000 tonnes for local consumption, meaning we now have a surplus and can begin exploring export markets.”
Zimbabwe’s achievement, he said, now positions it as Southern Africa’s wheat hub, capable of contributing to regional food security.
“In Southern Africa, Zimbabwe stands alone as wheat self-sufficient. Our next goal is to leverage this position to supply neighbouring SADC countries, while ensuring our own domestic market enjoys stable prices,” he said.
Smallholder farmers have also become integral in wheat production.
“Our smallholder farmers are now major contributors. Through support programmes such as the Presidential Input Scheme and joint ventures, they have become experts in winter wheat production. Their inclusion ensures that growth is both sustainable and inclusive.”
Prof Jiri said focus is now shifting to expand irrigation infrastructure to sustain the gains and growth trajectory.
“We are not turning back. The target is to increase irrigated land so that Zimbabwe remains food-secure all year round.”
Agricultural and Rural Development Authority (ARDA) board chairperson Mr Ivan Craig said the authority surpassed its production targets this year, contributing significantly to the national total.
“This year was exceptional. ARDA targeted 60 000 hectares under wheat but went slightly beyond that.
“We produced more than 300 000 tonnes — 17 percent above last year’s output — thanks to timely inputs, mechanisation and access to combine harvesters,” said Mr Craig.
He commended President Mnangagwa and the Government for prioritising agricultural productivity through early planning and financing.
“The timely provision of inputs, electricity and machinery made all the difference. We had enough combine harvesters to prevent rainfall losses, ensuring every hectare counted,” he said.
Agricultural and Rural Development Advisory Services chief director Mrs Medlinah Magwenzi also credited early planting and improved agronomic practices for the bumper yields.
“Inputs arrived early, allowing farmers to plant between mid-April and the end of May.
“We averaged between five and nine tonnes per hectare, with a national average of 5,2 tonnes — the highest we have ever recorded,” she said.
The availability of modern equipment such as drones for pest control and efficient combine harvesters ensured smooth harvesting across all provinces.
Mrs Esther Makwara, a farmer from Craigengower in Mazowe, praised the Government’s continued support.
“I benefitted from the Presidential Inputs Support Programme and had reliable power and water supply from ZESA (Zimbabwe Electricity Supply Authority) and ZINWA (Zimbabwe National Water Authority).
“Access to combine harvesters through the mechanisation programme also ensured we harvested on time,” she said.
