Story by Fungai Jachi
SUSTAINED rainfall received in recent weeks has raised expectations of improved sugarcane yields among out-growers in Zimbabwe’s Lowveld, with farmers and industry officials pointing to healthier crops and expanded hectarage ahead of the upcoming milling season.
The improved outlook follows a strong 2025 season, during which Lowveld out-growers harvested about 1.4 million tonnes of sugarcane, producing more than 170 000 tonnes of processed sugar.
Farmers say the consistent rains have enhanced crop development while easing pressure on irrigation systems, a long-standing challenge in the semi-arid region.
“The crop is looking good because of the rains we received. We did not have to irrigate our crops but rather relied on the rains, and we were happy that it also gave us a chance to harvest water for irrigation,” said farmer Mr Daniel Tsingo.
Others noted that crop conditions are already outperforming last season, prompting early preparations for milling.
“It is promising to be a better season because the crop is better than last year’s, and we have already started to prepare to go to the mill,” said Mr Jason Magadzire, another farmer.
For growers accustomed to erratic rainfall, the current season has been particularly encouraging.
“It is rare for us here in the Lowveld to receive such rainfall, but we are happy we did because it boosted the growth of our crop. It is looking better, and we anticipate a bumper harvest,” said Mr Phillip Baloyi.
Industry authorities have also expressed confidence that the improved growing conditions will translate into higher national sugar output.
“This year’s crop is good because growth was boosted by the rains we received, which means we will have a good harvest, thereby increasing sugar production. Our goal is to utilise the land we have and the opportunity to make a difference in our country,” said Apex Council for Sugar Cane Farmers interim secretary-general, Mr Blessing Mahwerera.
Sugarcane’s designation as a strategic crop has further encouraged growers to expand production, particularly among out-growers supplying both domestic and export markets.
“Sugarcane was named a strategic crop, and we hope that we will be given the right assistance to fully reach our capacity. This year we have increased our hectarage with the anticipation of boosting sugar production for both the local and export markets,” said the Apex Council’s Acting Chairperson, Mrs Bernadette Chipembere.
Small-scale out-growers remain central to the industry, contributing more than 40 percent of national cane production, while Government continues to promote modernisation through improved irrigation infrastructure, including utilisation of major water sources such as Tugwi-Mukosi Dam.
