State-of-the-art Grain silos for Gokwe South

THE Government has announced plans to construct seven state-of-the-art stainless steel grain silos at the Grain Marketing Board (GMB) depot in Gokwe South District, located in the Midlands Province.

This initiative is expected to significantly enhance the country’s grain storage capacity, reduce post-harvest losses, and bolster national food security.

The construction of these silos is part of a broader national grain silo modernisation and expansion project, which will see the establishment of 14 new silos across the country at an estimated cost of US$300 million. Once completed, the project will increase Zimbabwe’s strategic grain reserve capacity from the current 750 000 tonnes to 1,5 million tonnes, thereby ensuring greater resilience against climate-induced shocks.

This development is in direct response to the El Niño-induced drought of the 2023/24 farming season, which severely impacted agricultural production and highlighted the urgent need for improved grain storage infrastructure. The additional storage facilities will provide farmers with secure storage options while enhancing the country’s ability to effectively manage grain reserves.

Construction work is already underway at several sites, including Kwekwe, Mhangura, Mutare, and Rutenga in Masvingo Province, where the building of silos is at various stages of completion. Midlands provincial mechanisation engineer, Andrew Mupariwa, confirmed that a site in Gokwe South has been selected for the new silos.

“Plans are underway for the construction of the new stainless steel grain silos in Gokwe. A contractor has already won the tender and is currently working on logistics to commence construction,” he said.

Eng Mupariwa added that these silos would be a game-changer for farmers in both Gokwe South and Gokwe North districts, who have long faced challenges regarding grain storage. He explained that inadequate storage facilities often result in post-harvest losses due to exposure, pest infestations, and contamination.

“Improved storage through these modern metal silos will significantly reduce post-harvest losses. The stainless steel structures will minimise insect damage, prevent contamination, and ensure that grain remains in optimal condition for extended periods,” he said.

Eng Mupariwa further revealed that the construction of the Kwekwe silos is progressing well, with expectations that they will be operational before the 2024/2025 harvest season.

The silo expansion project is expected to increase confidence among farmers, providing reliable storage facilities closer to their production areas, which will reduce transportation costs and post-harvest losses. It also aligns with the Government’s broader strategy to achieve food self-sufficiency and enhance agricultural productivity under the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1).

Once completed, the new silos will play a pivotal role in supporting the country’s grain reserve strategy and ensuring food security in the face of climate change-induced disruptions.