Story by Tawanda Mazhangara

MASHONALAND East Province has exceeded its maize planting target for the 2025-2026 summer cropping season, with farmers planting more than 230 000 hectares against a target of 225 000 hectares, according to figures from the Agricultural and Rural Development Advisory Services (ARDAS).

The milestone has been attributed to favourable rainfall patterns, strong farmer participation and sustained Government support, and is expected to bolster national food security.

Acting Mashonaland East Provincial Director for ARDAS, Mr Callisto Masiiwa, said the crop was generally in good condition, although some fields now require top dressing.

“Our maize target was 225 000 hectares, and we have surpassed it now, above 230 000 hectares. Generally, the crop is in good condition, with some now in need of top dressing. Some farmers are finishing off their plantings, and we encourage them to plant short season varieties and finish off by December 31, 2025,” he said.

Mr Masiiwa also urged farmers to remain vigilant against pests and weeds.

“We also encourage farmers to scout and control pests, particularly the fall army worm, as well as manage weeds,” Mr Masiiwa said.

Farmers in Marondera District expressed optimism about the season, citing improved rainfall compared to the previous year.

“So far, we have received good rains compared to last season, and we expect a better harvest from our Pfumvudza plots. We expect a good season, and we hope the rains will continue in the new year,” a farmer, Shingirayi Gotora noted.

Another farmer, Joel Chere, said collaboration with extension officers had improved productivity prospects.

“We expect better yields next year, and we are collaborating very well with our agricultural extension workers,” Joel Chere said.

Commercial farmer Russell Stockhill said he had planted 10 hectares of maize and anticipated a reasonable yield, although he noted challenges associated with leaching.

“I planted 10 hectares looking for a reasonable yield. The season appears to be good for maize, although there comes a challenge for leaching, meaning more top dressing is required,” Russell Stockhill said.

Nationally, the Government has set a maize planting target of 1.8 million hectares for the current summer cropping season.