Online Reporter
Conrad Mupesa
Mashonaland West Bureau
FARMERS from Mhangura and surrounding areas have expressed excitement as they await the commissioning of state-of-the-art AI-powered grain silos at the Mhangura Grain Marketing Board depot, which are set to transform post-harvest handling and safeguard their produce.
The 58 000-tonne capacity facility, whose construction is at an advanced stage, is expected to be completed in June this year, with commissioning set to follow, marking a major milestone in Government’s efforts to curb post-harvest losses through modern technology.
Already, Government has launched AI-powered silos in Kwekwe and Mutare.
For years, farmers in Mhangura, Doma and nearby communities, have endured significant grain losses due to inadequate storage facilities and poor handling methods.
However, the new AI-powered silos, equipped with automated sorting, moisture detection and temperature control systems, are set to change the narrative.
A farmer from Doma area, Mr Misheck Paradzanwa, said the development had come at the right time as many farmers were losing grain due to poor storage conditions.
“We have been facing serious challenges in preserving our grain. Sometimes you harvest good maize, but by the time you deliver it, a lot would have been lost due to moisture and poor storage,” he said.
“These new silos will save us. With proper drying and storage, we are now assured that our hard work will not go to waste.”
Another farmer, Mr Nickson Maguvaza, said the Mhangura GMB facility would improve efficiency.
“With the Mhangura silos, everything will be done here drying, grading and storage. This is a big relief for us as farmers,” he said.
Mr James Maganga highlighted the role of technology in improving agricultural productivity.
“The introduction of Artificial Intelligence in grain storage is a game-changer. It means our grain will be handled professionally, with the right moisture levels and temperatures maintained.
“This will not only reduce losses but also help us get better value for our produce,” he said.
The transformation of the more than 60-year-old Mhangura depot is part of a broader Government strategy to modernise grain storage infrastructure and enhance food security. With AI systems, the facility will provide a one-stop centre for grain handling from intake to storage.
