admin
Theseus Shambare
As the 2024-25 summer cropping season draws to a close, Zimbabwe is on the brink of a significant transformation in its agricultural infrastructure.
This month marks the launch of the country’s inaugural AI-powered silo depot in Kwekwe, an initiative poised to strengthen national food security through cutting-edge technology.
The development is not merely a local improvement; it represents a broader modernisation effort aimed at revolutionising grain storage across the nation.
The Kwekwe facility is part of a substantial US$500 million project that involves the construction of 21 Grain Marketing Board (GMB) depots throughout Zimbabwe.
It aims to significantly enhance the country’s grain storage capacity, increasing the strategic grain reserve from 650 000 tonnes to approximately 1,4 million tonnes.
Presently, much of Zimbabwe’s grain is stored under less secure tarpaulin shelters, which poses risks to quality and security.
The introduction of these modern silos is expected to mitigate such risks, providing a more reliable environment for grain storage.
At the heart of this modernisation are advanced artificial intelligence and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies.
These innovations will allow for real-time monitoring of critical storage parameters, including load management, fleet movement, and energy consumption.
Engineer Edwin Zimunga, the chief director of agricultural engineering in the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, said AI-driven systems will optimise storage and automate building functions.
He said the technology is designed to detect grain spoilage, ensuring that the quality of stored grain is maintained throughout its storage life.
The Kwekwe depot, which is nearing completion at 90 percent, will serve as a model for subsequent installations, with facilities in Mutare, Mvurwi, and Mhangura set to follow, said Eng Zimunga.
The phased roll-out of these depots reflects a strategic approach to enhancing the national grain reserve, ensuring that each new facility incorporates lessons learned from Kwekwe’s implementation.
Eng Zimunga noted that monthly progress updates will see additional sites coming online, ultimately aiming for a total of 14 depots equipped with these modern technologies.
The timing of the Kwekwe depot’s launch is significant, coinciding with a projected harvest of over 3,5 million tonnes of cereals during the 2024/2025 summer season.
This harvest is expected to exceed last year’s figures, reflecting a positive trend in Zimbabwe’s agricultural output.
In addition, the upcoming winter wheat season is anticipated to yield over 600 000 tonnes, a record surpassing the previous year’s 560 000 tonnes.
Government’s strategic investment in modern grain storage aligns with these optimistic projections.
By increasing the storage capacity, the GMB aims to create a buffer that ensures food security for the nation, particularly for vulnerable populations.
Eng Zimunga emphasised that achieving a reserve of 1,5 million tonnes would provide a safety net for up to three years, ensuring that food supply can be maintained even in challenging times.
Despite these advancements, the project is not without its challenges.
Current reports from the Agriculture and Rural Advisory Services (ARDAS) indicate varying completion levels among other depots, with Mhangura at 45 percent, Mvurwi at 27 percent, and others lagging.
The Government is keenly aware of the need for continued investment and support to bring all depots up to the standards set by the Kwekwe facility.
Online Reporter