The Government says Zimbabwe is on course for a strong agricultural season, with positive crop conditions, expanded hectarage and improved farmer payments under the 2025/2026 Summer Production Plan.
Presenting an update following Cabinet deliberations, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister, Dr Jenfan Muswere, said the nation’s food security framework remains firmly on track.
Dr Muswere revealed that the current Strategic Grain Reserve held by the Grain Marketing Board (GMB) stands at 187 245 metric tonnes. Of this total, 113 751 metric tonnes is wheat, while the remainder consists of maize and traditional grains.
He noted that the Agricultural and Rural Development Authority (ARDA), designated as the country’s food security agent, has contributed 84.8 percent of the marketed grain.
In terms of financial support to the sector, Dr Muswere said funding for the 2025/2026 summer cropping season currently amounts to ZiG73 million and US$313.933 million. The Grain Marketing Board has already paid farmers US$22 384 053.16 for grain deliveries, with weekly disbursements ongoing to clear outstanding payments.
Meanwhile, the First Round of the Crop, Livestock and Fisheries Assessment led by the Zimbabwe National Statistical Agency (ZIMSTAT) is underway, with conclusive area figures expected soon. Preliminary findings indicate that crop conditions are good across all provinces.
The Meteorological Service Department has also forecast normal to above-normal rainfall, raising prospects for improved yields.
Dr Muswere said Government had set aside 1 900 709 hectares for maize production this season, representing a 30 percent increase from the 1 463 465 hectares planted during the 2024/2025 season. ARDA has so far planted 101 230 hectares, comprising 34 752 hectares under maize and 66 478 hectares under sorghum.
On climate-resilient farming, provinces have collectively registered 15 967 155 Pfumvudza/Intwasa plots for the 2025/2026 season, up from 10 817 408 plots the previous year — a 48 percent increase.
Tobacco production has also expanded, with 164 536 hectares planted, marking a 15 percent rise from the 143 025 hectares recorded during the same period last year. Authorities report that crop conditions are favourable and the country is poised for another strong harvest.
In export performance, tobacco shipments have risen significantly to 42 139 million kilogrammes, compared to 19 891 107 million kilogrammes exported at the same time in 2025.
Dr Muswere said these developments demonstrate Government’s commitment to strengthening national food security, enhancing farmer viability and driving agricultural growth under the country’s broader economic transformation agenda.
