Online Reporter
Joseph Madzimure and Precious Manomano, Zimpapers Reporters
THE Treasury has released US$10 million to facilitate payments for grain delivered by farmers, a critical move that comes when preparations for the 2025/2026 summer cropping season is underway, Grain Marketing Board (GMB) chief executive officer, Dr Edson Badarai has said.
Speaking at last week’s Zanu-PF National People’s Conference held in Mutare, Dr Badarai said this new tranche is in addition to the US$5 million disbursed to the GMB about two weeks ago.
This cumulative funding now accounts for 80 percent of the payments necessary for the summer deliveries in US dollars.
Dr Badarai said these payments are vital, particularly during this busy period when farmers are actively preparing for the current growing season.
He expressed gratitude to farmers for their patience and unwavering commitment to enhancing national food security, especially in strengthening the strategic grain reserve essential for the nation’s sustenance.
“These payments are critical during this period when farmers are busy preparing for the current season,” he said.
Dr Badarai also lauded Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development Minister, Dr Anxious Masuka, for his proactive engagement with the Treasury in securing these financial resources.
The financial support is crucial as it aligns with the Government’s overarching goal of accelerating agricultural transformation in Zimbabwe.
In a broader context, the Government has identified 21 key initiatives aimed at enhancing food security and supporting the summer farming season.
These initiatives are part of a strategic plan to achieve self-sufficiency in food production, a goal that is increasingly vital given the nation’s reliance on agriculture for economic stability.
The Agricultural and Rural Development Advisory Services (Ardas) recently released a report, indicating that preparations for the summer cropping season are progressing smoothly.
Notably, the Bankers Association of Zimbabwe has committed ZiG53 million and US$66,65 million to finance the summer cropping season.
As of now, ZiG57 million has already been disbursed, leaving a balance of ZiG113 million and US$20 million.
Irrigation plays a pivotal role in the Government’s strategy to boost agricultural productivity.
A total of 120 000 hectares has been set aside for summer crops, including 50 000 hectares designated for maize, 20 000 hectares for soybeans, and another 20 000 hectares for sugar beans.
To support these agricultural efforts, the Government has deployed 16 350 functional tractors.
The focus on mechanisation is crucial for increasing efficiency and productivity, particularly as farmers adapt to modern agricultural practices and technologies.
In terms of seed and fertiliser management, the report highlighted that while there is an adequate supply of maize seed to meet the present demands, deficits have been noted in other crucial crops, such as groundnuts, soyabeans and sunflowers.
These shortages may necessitate imports to ensure that farmers have the necessary inputs for optimal crop production.
The seasonal requirement for fertilisers is projected to be around 780 000 tonnes, which will address both basal and top-dressing needs.
This supply of fertilisers is essential to ensure that crops receive the necessary nutrients for healthy growth and high yield.
In addition, the Government has prioritised chemical provision for pest management, recognising the importance of protecting crops from pests and diseases that could threaten food security.
Despite the positive developments, challenges remain. The unpredictable weather patterns and potential economic constraints could impact the effectiveness of these initiatives.
