Online Reporter
Nyasha Simbisai
Agriculture correspondent
Wheat planting is in full swing, with farmers advised to plant within the recommended window for optimum yields.
This comes as authorities have expressed strong confidence in achieving another bumper harvest.
Speaking in an interview recently, Agriculture Mechanisation and Water Resources Development Permanent Secretary Professor Obert Jiri said the wheat planting season had “started in earnest,” underscoring the importance of adhering to the scientifically recommended planting period, which runs from May 1 to May 31.
“We are now deep in the wheat planting season. Scientifically, the winter wheat season starts from May 1 and should end on May 31. This is the window within which farmers must plant to ensure optimal yields,” he said.
“We are urging all farmers to expedite their planting so that we are ahead of the cut-off date. We are anticipating that we will not go beyond the May 31 deadline because thereafter our yields become compromised.”
Wheat production has been on the increase during the past years, driven by deliberate policy interventions, increased irrigation capacity and enhanced farmer support systems.
Once reliant on imports, the country has made significant strides and achieved wheat self-sufficiency, a milestone that has bolstered national food sovereignty and reduced pressure on foreign currency reserves.
The Government set a target of 125 000 hectares under wheat this winter cropping season, 7 000 ha of barley and more than 9 000 ha of potatoes, in a strategic push to consolidate national food security and reduce reliance on imports.
Prof Jiri said preparations for the season had been thorough, with critical inputs already in place across the country.
“All our inputs for the Presidential Input Support Programme for wheat are available, and distribution has already started in all areas.
“Farmers under this programme are receiving a full package, including seed, Compound D fertiliser, top dressing fertiliser, as well as herbicides for wheat,” he said.
Prof Jiri said the National Enhanced Agriculture Productivity Scheme (NEAPS) and private sector contractor programmes were key pillars buttressing wheat production.
“Other programmes, such as the NEAPS programme and contractor programmes by the private sector, are also in place. Inputs are generally available,” he said.
Prof Jiri acknowledged emerging challenges linked to global geopolitical dynamics, particularly in relation to fertiliser supply chains.
“Of course, we are seeing the effects of the Middle East unrest, where there are some delays here and there, particularly for private sector fertiliser.
“We are facilitating as much as possible to ensure that fertiliser, particularly top-dressing fertiliser, arrives in time for private sector-supported programmes,” Prof Jiri said.
Wheat is a staple commodity, forming the backbone of bread and other essential food products consumed daily across the country.
Prof Jiri expressed confidence that the combination of preparedness, farmer commitment and institutional support would translate into another successful winter season.
