Online Reporter
AS meteorological forecasts confirm a strong El Niño event for the 2026 season, the Ministry of Agriculture, Mechanisation and Water Resources Development is calling on all Zimbabweans especially farmers not to panic.
The Secretary, Prof Obert Jiri has assured the nation that Government has learned from the past and is well-prepared to face the challenges ahead.
Addressing the media at a briefing recently, Prof Jiri reminded the public that Zimbabwe has weathered several strong El Niño events before, including those in 1983, 1997-98 and 2015.
“Each time, we emerged stronger,” he said.
“Through targeted strategies and national unity, we managed to feed our people even in the harshest seasons. We need to plan and act accordingly.”
Lessons from history
Prof Jiri highlighted that previous El Niño years had tested the nation’s resilience, but with decisive leadership and community effort, Zimbabwe avoided widespread hunger.
“We have a proud record of overcoming adversity. The strategies we developed in those years such as drought-tolerant crops, water harvesting and food relief programmes became the backbone of our agricultural policy,” he said.
New strategies for a changing climate
For the 2026 season, the Ministry has mapped out comprehensive interventions covering all sectors:
n Early warning systems are in place, providing timely weather updates and farming advice to rural communities.
n Diversified input support ensures farmers have access to drought-resistant seeds, fertilisers and targeted extension services.
n Strategic grain reserves are being bolstered, guaranteeing national food security regardless of rainfall patterns.
n Irrigation expansion projects are underway, lessening dependence on unpredictable rains.
n Cross-sectoral collaboration with private sector, NGOs and international partners is maximising resource mobilisation and technical support.
A message of reassurance
Prof Jiri’s message to the nation is clear: “This is not the first time Zimbabwe has faced a strong El Niño and it will not be the last. What matters is our ability to adapt, prepare and work together.
The Government’s goal is unwavering — to feed the nation, rain or sushine, El Niño or La Niña.”
He called on farmers to remain focused and to make full use of Ministry resources, extension advice and early warning information.
“Let us trust in our collective experience and the strategies now in place. Panic is not a strategy preparation is.”
National unity in the face of climate extremes
As the 2026 season begins, the Ministry of Agriculture, Mechanisation and Water Resources
Development stands ready, driven by science, solidarity and a shared determination to ensure food security for every Zimbabwean. The nation is encouraged to face the coming season with confidence, drawing on its history of resilience and the strength of its communities.
The Ministry will continue to share updates on ongoing initiatives and the progress of the agriculture season as Zimbabwe rises to meet the challenge.
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