Zimbabwe’s communal farmers are cautiously optimistic as recent rains bring relief to their summer crops, following a prolonged dry spell that had caused concern across the country. The rains, though welcomed, come with a sense of uncertainty, as many farmers are still haunted by the devastating impacts of the El Niño-induced drought that affected Zimbabwe and the broader Southern African region.
In separate interviews Farmers said the recent dry conditions left them on edge, unsure of the potential for a successful season. However, the recent downpours have restored some hope, even as high temperatures leading up to the rains reminded them of the hardships they faced last year.
While optimism is growing, the Zimbabwe Farmers Union (ZFU) has advised farmers who have yet to plant maize to consider planting short-season crops like small grains.
