Online Reporter
Raymond Jaravaza, Sunday News Reporter
THE Meteorological Services Department (MSD) has forecasted an increased rainfall activity nationwide from next week into March, offering relief to farmers who are expecting to start harvesting their first crops that were planted last year.
Maize fields across the country, including urban areas are now a lush expanse of green, with expectations of a bumper harvest this season while several dams, such as Mtshabezi, Bubi-Lupane, Silalabuhwa and Zhovhe are already at full capacity and spilling over.
MSD’s Head of Forecasting, Mr James Mangoma, said the country should prepare for a wet period beginning next week.
“We have two weather systems influencing the region. The first is the Inter-Tropical Convergence Zone, which is moving southwards from the north into the northern parts of the country from today (Saturday) and will persist throughout the weekend.
“We anticipate substantial rainfall from next week across the rest of the country, with additional rains expected from mid-February in Matabeleland South, Masvingo, parts of the Midlands and into Manicaland Province. These rains are likely to continue into March, gradually decreasing towards the end of that month,” Mr Mangoma said.
The prospect of increased rainfall will be warmly welcomed by farmers eager to begin harvesting their crops, primarily maize, which is at various stages of growth.
Urban farmers interviewed by Sunday News yesterday reported that moisture stress has yet to significantly impact their maize crops and additional rains will ensure a favourable harvest.
Mr Enos Mlambo, who cultivated maize on a four-acre piece of land in Mahatshula suburb — situated under electricity infrastructure — said the rains would benefit his crops, planted at the end of November last year.
“The maize just needs another round of rain, and it will be ready for harvest at the end of the month. Most of the maize around Bulawayo is still in good condition and farmers are optimistic about a good yield. It’s been a good season so far, but we need more rains to secure a successful harvest,” Mr Mlambo stated.
Renowned pedigree breeder Mr Jairos Mahlangu expressed optimism that increased rainfall would benefit pastures across the country.
“We pray for more rain so that we can avoid spending money on stock feed during the dry season from May to October. This is the time when farmers can start harvesting grass to store on their farms and plots, which will feed livestock once the rains cease,” he said.
Residents of Bulawayo are particularly hopeful for more rainfall, especially in Matabeleland South, where the city’s water supply dams are located.
For years, Bulawayo has grappled with a severe raw water shortage, leading to the implementation of stringent water shedding regimes. In extreme cases, residents have endured up to 120 hours of water rationing.
As of yesterday, Upper Ncema Dam stood at 40,4 per cent capacity, while Lower Ncema was at 37,4 percent. These two dams are part of the six that supply water to the city.
In an interview with ZBC last month, President Mnangagwa projected that 2026 would be a prosperous year, driven by strong performances in the mining, agriculture and manufacturing sectors.
He noted that the agricultural sector had benefited from a good season, with widespread rains supporting crops at various growth stages.
“The outlook for this season is very positive. The rainy season has been excellent and crop conditions across the country are promising,” President Mnangagwa noted.
“I am not receiving any complaints from any province. I believe we are set for a bumper harvest this year, which is vital for our country’s self-sufficiency in food production.
“Just look at this place, the First Family’s Pricabe Farm — on your left or right, you can see how healthy the crops are. That indicates a very good harvest ahead,” he added.
The President also expressed confidence in the country’s economic prospects, citing positive indicators across sectors such as mining, agriculture and industry.
“Indicators suggest we will outperform the previous year, as the fundamentals are favourable. The rains have been good, and the industrial and mining sectors are operating smoothly, with no strikes or disruptions. People are working and every sub-sector of the economy is expanding. This bodes well for our growth and development,” he said.
