Johnson Progress

Zimbabwe is on the cusp of a record-breaking wheat harvest, with the country poised to produce 600,000 tonnes of wheat this season, the highest output in its history.

 

This achievement will not only meet but exceed the nation’s annual consumption requirement of 360,000 tonnes, ensuring a steady supply for local millers and eliminating the need for costly imports.

 

The Agricultural and Rural Development Authority (Arda) says preliminary figures indicate that its target of 300,000 tonnes under its estates, irrigation schemes, and joint ventures will be surpassed, driven by improved productivity and strong partnerships between the public and private sectors.

 

According to Arda’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Tino Mhiko, harvesting is progressing well across all production zones, with yields pointing to another successful season.

 

“We started harvesting our early-planted crop last week, and harvesting is progressing well. We have harvested 1,121 hectares with an output of 7,409 tonnes of wheat,” Mr. Mhiko said.

 

The bumper harvest is a significant boost to national food security, with Arda’s production expected to account for about 50% of this year’s national wheat output.

 

Zimbabwe has made remarkable strides in wheat production, achieving self-sufficiency for the third consecutive year.

 

The country’s wheat production has been on an upward trend, with a record-breaking harvest of 563,961 metric tonnes in the previous season.

 

The government’s commitment to supporting the agricultural sector is evident in its policies and investments.

 

The Second Republic’s Agricultural Recovery Plan and the Agriculture and Food Systems Transformation Strategy have been instrumental in driving the country’s agricultural growth.

 

“Having achieved wheat self-sufficiency since 2022, our next focus is on building strategic grain reserves to cushion the nation against future shocks,” Mr. Mhiko said.

 

The anticipated bumper harvest has positioned Zimbabwe as one of the top wheat-producing countries in Africa.

 

With its sights set on becoming a net exporter, Zimbabwe is exploring export markets in countries such as Mozambique and Rwanda, which have expressed interest in importing wheat from the country.

 

As the country continues to prioritize agriculture, it is well on its way to achieving its vision of food security and sovereignty.