Online Reporter
Ivan Zhakata
Herald Correspondent
ZIMBABWE has recorded its highest-ever wheat output of 578 059 tonnes for the 2025 season, surpassing last year’s record of 562,091.
This announcement was made by Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development Minister Dr. Anxious Masuka.
The achievement confirms Zimbabwe’s position as one of only two African countries that have attained wheat self-sufficiency, a feat attributed to President Mnangagwa’s leadership. “From a modest volume of 94 685 tonnes in 2019 to 562 091 tonnes in 2024, Zimbabwe is one of only two jurisdictions on the African continent that have become wheat self-sufficient,” he stated. “This is testament to the President, His Excellency, Dr Mnangagwa’s visionary leadership.”
Dr Masuka noted that the harvested wheat came from 110 543 hectares, with a remaining 12 023 hectares expected to be harvested by the first week of November. The total output represents a 511 percent increase from 2019 levels.
Minister Masuka highlighted that the 2025 production exceeds the country’s annual requirement of 360 000 tonnes, creating potential for exports in the region and beyond. “Zimbabwe is currently seeking export markets for its wheat, in the region and beyond,” he said.
He added that there would be no need to import wheat this year; however, certain millers would continue importing specific high-gluten wheat varieties not produced locally to meet unique industrial requirements. “Such wheat, not produced locally, will continue to be imported as per previous pronouncements and import application arrangements, without any additional costs,” he stated.
The Government, through the Grain Marketing Board (GMB), has distributed over 6 518 tonnes of wheat to millers in recent weeks to stabilise supplies and ensure consistent availability.
“The current wheat product price stability is partially attributable to this timely intervention. This must continue,” Minister Masuka emphasised.
