Fungai Lupande-Mashonaland Central Bureau
FARMERS in Mashonaland Central Province have been urged to intensify climate-smart agriculture, conserve soil moisture and prepare their fields early as Zimbabwe steps up preparations for the 2026/2027 summer cropping season amid forecasts of a potentially strong El Niño event.
The anticipated weather phenomenon could heighten the risk of below-normal rainfall, raising concerns over crop production and livestock survival, and prompting calls for farmers to make the most of available water resources.
Mashonaland Central Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Christopher Magomo, said early preparation, sound agronomic practices and coordinated action will be critical to safeguarding household and national food security.
Addressing farmers and stakeholders at the launch of the 2026/2027 Pfumvudza/Intwasa programme in Shamva yesterday, Minister Magomo said the possibility of drought requires communities to take proactive measures rather than wait for the onset of the rains.
He cautioned against treating the El Niño forecast as an automatic indication of drought or crop failure, saying preparedness and the efficient use of available water will be decisive in determining agricultural outcomes.
“El Niño does not automatically mean that a season must end in drought or crop failure. Our response must be guided by preparedness, sound agronomic advice, efficient use of available water and the timely adoption of climate-smart farming practices,” he said.
Government has introduced a six-pillar Summer Plan to mitigate the potential effects of drought and safeguard national food security.
The plan prioritises strengthening the Strategic Grain Reserve, accelerating climate-smart agricultural production, improving agricultural financing, mitigating livestock losses, facilitating imports, and strengthening coordination and early warning systems.
Under the grain reserve pillar, households are expected to maintain adequate grain stocks, minimise post-harvest losses, and contribute to national food security through wheat deliveries and the mobilisation of 10 kilogrammes of grain from Pfumvudza beneficiaries.
Minister Magomo urged farmers to prioritise early plot preparation, mulching and liming, while maximising the use of irrigation schemes and Village Business Units to boost cereal production.
He called on agricultural extension officers to provide timely technical advice, while traditional leaders and local stakeholders mobilise communities to ensure the effective implementation of the programme.
