Zimbabwe eyes new wheat record
Zimbabwe has launched its winter cropping season, targeting 662,500 tonnes of wheat on 125,000 hectares. Backed by irrigation, input support and partnerships, production is expected to remain strong after recent record harvests. Timely planting and input distribution are key as the country moves closer to sustained wheat self-sufficiency.
ZIMBABWE has begun its winter cropping season, with authorities expressing confidence that the country can achieve another strong wheat harvest as planting gathers momentum.
The government is targeting 662 500 tonnes of wheat this season, driven by expanded irrigation, public-private partnerships and timely distribution of inputs.
The ambitious target follows a series of record-breaking harvests that have pushed Zimbabwe towards wheat self-sufficiency, although the country still imports small quantities to blend with locally-produced grain.
In the 2025 season, Zimbabwe produced more than 639 000 tonnes of wheat, surpassing the country’s annual consumption demand of 615 000 tonnes.
Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Development secretary Obert Jiri told NewsDay that the wheat planting window — which runs from May 1 to 31 — is underway, with farmers urged to speed up planting to maximise yields.
The government is targeting 125 000 hectares of wheat, 7 000 hectares of barley and more than 9 000 hectares of potatoes this winter as part of broader efforts to strengthen national food security.
“That is the target and so far all our inputs for the Presidential Input Support Programme for wheat are available, with distribution having already started in all areas,” Jiri said.
He said farmers under the Presidential Input Support Programme were receiving a full package of inputs, including seed, Compound D fertiliser, top dressing fertiliser and herbicides.
Jiri added that private sector initiatives such as the National Integrated Agricultural Business Scheme and contractor programmes were also supplying inputs, although minor delays had been recorded.
“We are urging all farmers to hasten their planting so that we are ahead of the cut-off date,” he said.
“We are anticipating that we will not go beyond the 31 May deadline, because thereafter our yields become compromised.”
Jiri said despite some delays in fertiliser supply linked to unrest in the Middle East, efforts were underway to ensure critical inputs reach farmers on time.
“It’s game on for wheat farmers and we are expecting another very good winter wheat season as we focus on ensuring wheat security ahead of the summer season,” he said.
Wheat production has surged from under 100 000 tonnes eight years ago to record highs, with the 2024 harvest reaching 555 000 tonnes, a record that was surpassed the following year.
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Source : NEWS DAY
