Story by Tamuka Charakupa
GOVERNMENT has assured wheat farmers of uninterrupted electricity and water supplies during the winter cropping season as Zimbabwe intensifies efforts to boost wheat production and maintain self-sufficiency.
The assurance comes as winter wheat planting gathers momentum across Mashonaland West Province, where farmers are expanding hectarage in line with national production targets.
Speaking during a field day at Mrs Captain Magaya’s farm, Mashonaland West Provincial Agritex Officer, Mrs Evelyn Ndoro, said preparations for the winter wheat programme are progressing steadily.
“Our target for this year’s winter wheat programme is 35 000 hectares and preparations are progressing well across the country. We expect that by the end of May, we would have planted 80 percent of the targeted area,” she said.
“However, moisture content is still a bit high, so planting will continue into the first week of June. Currently, input distribution is ongoing, while some farmers have already started planting under irrigation.”
The field day, held at a farm where more than 60 hectares of wheat have already been planted, allowed farmers to exchange knowledge on best farming practices and production techniques.
Mrs Magaya said strategic crop rotation was helping improve productivity and maintain soil health.
“This season, we have planted over 60 hectares of wheat and we are optimistic about achieving good yields,” she said.
“I have realised that crop rotation is very important because it helps maintain soil fertility, reduces pest and disease pressure and improves overall productivity.”
She added that Government support programmes were encouraging farmers to expand production.
Headman Katizagombo commended Government for strengthening irrigation systems and availing agricultural support services to farmers.
“Such initiatives are not only improving agricultural productivity, but are also empowering farmers to contribute towards national food security and improved livelihoods,” he said.
Agronomist Mr Zivanai Sigauke stressed the importance of certified seed varieties in increasing yields.
“We continue to encourage farmers to adopt improved seed varieties and follow recommended agronomic practices because quality seed forms the foundation of a successful harvest,” he said.
Last season, Mashonaland West planted 34 000 hectares of wheat, with authorities now targeting 35 000 hectares this year.
Meanwhile, Agriculture, Mechanisation and Water Resources Development Minister Dr Anxious Masuka said Government remains focused on ensuring the country achieves wheat self-sufficiency and eventually becomes a surplus producer.
“Our thrust is to ensure that Zimbabwe remains wheat self-sufficient and eventually becomes a surplus producer,” said Dr Masuka.
“Government continues to support farmers through irrigation development, mechanisation programmes, timely input distribution and modern storage facilities so that productivity continues to increase across all provinces.”
Zimbabwe is targeting 125 000 hectares under winter wheat this season, up from 122 142 hectares planted in 2025.
Government is also targeting to expand irrigated land to 496 000 hectares by 2030.
