Precious Manomano
The Government has accelerated the distribution of agricultural inputs across the country, targeting delivery to all wards by the end of this month as preparations gather pace for the 2026/27 summer cropping season.
The rollout comes as farmers complete land preparation and Pfumvudza/Intwasa plots ahead of anticipated rains in parts of the country this weekend, although authorities have cautioned against premature planting following isolated showers.
Agriculture, Mechanisation and Water Resources Development Permanent Secretary, Professor Obert Jiri, said distribution of maize seed and top-dressing fertiliser was almost complete, while deliveries of basal fertiliser, liquid lime and sorghum seed were gathering momentum.
“Inputs distribution is well on course, about 100 percent maize and top-dressing fertiliser, just under 30 percent of basal fertiliser and liquid lime. We are beginning to get that and about 25 percent of the sorghum seed,” he said.
Prof Jiri said the Government wanted farmers to incorporate liquid lime into their production systems to improve soil conditions and productivity.
He said preparations for the season had been intensified, with farmers expected to complete land preparation and ensure they acquired inputs suited to their respective agro-ecological regions.
“We are deep in preparations for summer. Farmers have expedited the preparation of Pfumvudza plots, which is critical. Farmers need to prepare accordingly because the season might not be good. Agro-matched input acquisition and land preparation must be on point,” he said.
With the Meteorological Services Department forecasting possible rainfall in parts of the country this weekend, farmers have been urged to assess soil moisture levels before planting.
Prof Jiri said farmers who receive sufficient rainfall should proceed with planting, while those who experience light or isolated showers should wait until conditions are suitable for successful crop establishment.
The Ministry of Agriculture has encouraged farmers to seek guidance from Agricultural Business Advisory Officers, who are monitoring local conditions and providing advice on planting decisions.
Rainfall exceeding 20 millimetres over three days could help inform the decision to plant, although the amount of moisture retained in the soil and prospects of further rainfall should also be considered.
“We still encourage farmers to be patient about planting,” Prof Jiri said, warning that the first scattered thunderstorms should not automatically be interpreted as the beginning of the effective planting season.
The cautious approach comes as Zimbabwe prepares for a potentially challenging agricultural season, with a strong El Niño event raising concerns over rainfall distribution and the prospects of maize production.
More than 6 000 agricultural extension workers have been deployed countrywide to assist farmers with production advice, climate information and early warning systems.
Prof Jiri said crop selection would be particularly important, as the anticipated weather conditions could narrow the areas suitable for maize production.
“In most areas, we know in Zimbabwe that the suitability for maize is going to be constricted,” he said.
He encouraged farmers to diversify into traditional grains such as sorghum and millets, as well as sunflower and short-season crop varieties that can mature within potentially shorter rainfall windows.
The Government has engaged seed companies to ensure the availability of climate-smart varieties suited to the anticipated conditions.
“I am happy to say that we have met with most of the seed companies who have aligned to introduce and to deliver to our farmers the climate-smart varieties — short-season and medium-season varieties — which are appropriate for this season,” Prof Jiri said.
Government is also working with private-sector players, agricultural contractors and development partners to mobilise resources for agricultural production, including seed, fertiliser and other essential inputs.
The National Enhanced Agricultural Productivity Scheme, the Agricultural and Rural Development Authority and the Food Crop Contractors Association are among the arrangements supporting farmers through contracting and other financing mechanisms.
Agricultural experts have also emphasised the need for farmers to complement input support with sound agronomic practices to maximise yields and minimise production risks.
Agricultural and Rural Development Authority board chairman Mr Ivan Craig urged farmers to conduct soil tests to establish acidity levels and nutrient deficiencies before applying fertiliser.
“Soil testing is essential. The health and fitness of farmers are also important for increasing production,” he said.
Seed Co Africa head of agronomy and public relations manager Ms Wendy Madzura said farmers could reduce the risks associated with unpredictable rainfall by staggering planting dates and selecting varieties with different maturity periods.
She said water harvesting and soil moisture conservation would also be critical, particularly in areas likely to experience poorly distributed rainfall.
“Every drop counts,” Ms Madzura said.
Acting Deputy Director for Public Weather Services at the Meteorological Services Department Mr Isaac Masawana, urged farmers to make use of both seasonal forecasts and short-term weather updates when planning their agricultural activities.
He said below-normal rainfall did not mean that the country would receive no rain, as isolated heavy showers and thunderstorms could still occur.
Meanwhile, the Government is expanding the Pfumvudza/Intwasa programme to one million hectares from 718 000 hectares previously, as part of efforts to climate-proof agriculture and strengthen household and national food security.
The expanded programme, coupled with the accelerated distribution of inputs and deployment of extension workers, is expected to strengthen farmers’ preparedness for the coming season.
