President Emmerson Mnangagwa says the government is taking proactive steps to ensure a successful 2024-25 summer cropping season, highlighting optimism for restoring the nation’s food security.
Speaking on the ongoing efforts, President Mnangagwa emphasized the government’s commitment to increasing agricultural production through the expansion, rehabilitation, and utilization of critical mitigation infrastructure.
“Our government has already commenced preparations for the 2024-25 summer cropping season, which is expected to restore food security through increased production,” President Mnangagwa stated, underscoring the strategic measures being rolled out to counter the effects of climate challenges.
The President said despite the difficulties posed by the El Niño-induced drought, Zimbabwe’s agricultural sector has shown resilience, particularly in the winter wheat cropping season. A record-breaking 121,982 hectares of wheat were planted this season, reflecting significant progress in the sector even under adverse weather conditions.
The 2023-24 agricultural season, however, was marred by considerable challenges due to the El Niño phenomenon. The delayed onset of seasonal rainfall severely impacted planting activities, particularly in the western regions, which experienced one of the driest starts in four decades. The combination of insufficient rainfall and high temperatures further exacerbated the situation, diminishing crop yield prospects across the country.
