Online Reporter
Herald Reporters
THE Grain Millers Association of Zimbabwe has entered into an agreement with the Agricultural and Rural Development Authority to produce and supply 200 000 tonnes of non-GMO white maize during the 2025/26 summer cropping season.
The partnership, one of the largest private-public agricultural initiatives in recent years, is expected to strengthen national food security, reduce import dependence and promote sustainable grain production.
Under the agreement, ARDA will cultivate and deliver maize to GMAZ members between April 1, 2026, and March 30, 2027, with deliveries destined for major urban centres including Harare, Bulawayo and Mutare.
The maize will be supplied at a fixed price of US$355 per tonne.
Speaking at the signing ceremony in Harare, ARDA operations director Mr Shingirai Jenah said the collaboration would significantly boost local production and preserve foreign currency reserves.
“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 stated.
Mr Jenah said the partnership aligns with GMAZ’s ongoing efforts to secure Zimbabwe’s grain supply chain through domestic production.
“The commitment by GMAZ shows collaboration where ARDA and the private sector are aligning objectives to ensure sustainable food security for the country,” he added.
The initiative aims to improve food availability, create structured market access, and enhance value chain financing to support both commercial and smallholder farmers.
It will also promote local value addition, processing, and consistent supply of raw materials to agro-industries.
“We are mobilising financing through risk-sharing solutions, including innovative financial mechanisms like blended finance and warehouse receipt systems, to promote financial inclusion for both commercial and marginalised farmers,” he added.
GMAZ vice chairperson Mr Chipo Nheta described the agreement as a decisive step toward strengthening national food security and supporting Zimbabwean farmers.
Mr Jenah further emphasised that this partnership builds upon GMAZ’s ongoing mission to secure Zimbabwe’s grain supply chain through local production partnerships.
