Online Reporter
Theseus Shambare
WHEAT farmers have harvested over 10 000 tonnes since the start of the 2025 winter wheat season, as harvesting gathers momentum across the country.
This year, 122 566 hectares were planted, surpassing the 120 000-hectare target. About 62 percent of the crop will be harvested in October.
Authorities project 600 000 tonnes, against a national need of 360 000 tonnes, leaving a surplus of 240 000 tonnes.
In an interview with Zimpapers Online, Agricultural and Rural Development Advisory Services (ARDAS) chief director Mrs Medlinah Magwenzi said harvesting was progressing across all districts.
“Wheat harvesting is in progress in all the wheat-growing districts and is expected to end by the end of October 2025,” she said.
She said farmers were harvesting early to reduce fire risks.
“Farmers are harvesting as soon as wheat reaches the required moisture to avoid veld fires. Communities have also formed fire committees for quick response,” she said.
Mrs Magwenzi said the Dekad system, which divides harvesting into 10-day intervals, was ensuring efficiency.
“About 2 000 hectares were ready at the start of September, with the bulk expected between late September and mid-October,” she said.
She added that mechanisation clusters were helping speed up harvesting.
“Through mechanisation clusters, we are pooling machinery so that no farmer is left behind. Both large-scale and smallholder farmers are benefiting,” she said.
Mrs Magwenzi urged farmers to work ahead of the rains.
“Farmers must keep pace with the schedule before the rains come. Wheat must be harvested once it reaches the right moisture level to avoid losses from veld fires and rainfall,” she said.
Statistics show Mashonaland West has harvested 1 931 tonnes, Mashonaland Central 3 532 tonnes, Mashonaland East 234 tonnes, Manicaland 534 tonnes, Midlands 1 128 tonnes, Masvingo 832 tonnes, Matabeleland North 238 tonnes and Matabeleland South 1 928 tonnes, bringing the total to 10 356 tonnes.
Farmers have welcomed the progress, crediting government support.
Mazowe farmer Mr Tawanda Mhlanga said:
“We appreciate the Government’s efforts in providing timely inputs and extension support. This has boosted confidence, and we are certain the harvest will meet national needs and create a surplus.”
Zimbabwe have been on a positive trajectory, recording bumper wheat harvests since 2022, and authorities are confident of surpassing that milestone this season.
