Story by Tendai Munengwa
THE 2026 winter wheat planting season has rolled into full swing, with the Government confirming that all inputs under the Presidential Wheat Scheme and other contract arrangements are in place and ready for collection by farmers.
Planting is underway across various wheat-growing greenbelts, with farmers working within the recommended window period from May 1 to 31.
At a farm in Nyabira, farmers are racing against time to complete planting, while on another farm, early-planted wheat has already begun to germinate.
Mazowe Farmers Union Chairperson, Cde Andy Mhlanga, said farmers are committed to ensuring strong national output despite challenges.
“We are on the ground to make sure we produce enough wheat for the country. We have reduced hectarage due to low dam levels, but we will maximise yields per hectare,” he said.
Farmer Mr Cephas Mhanda said early planting has been boosted by favourable conditions and adequate support.
“We planted two weeks ago, as our weather conditions are conducive. We are happy we have water and electricity available, so we thank the government for that,” he said.
On input distribution, Permanent Secretary for Agriculture, Mechanisation and Water Resources Development, Professor Obert Jiri confirmed that all inputs under the Presidential Scheme are available, urging farmers to plant within the recommended period to maximise yields.
“Scientifically, the wheat season runs from May 1 to 31, so we are now deep into the season. We are targeting 125 000 hectares of wheat and 7 000 hectares of barley. All input programmes are in motion. Farmers participating in the Presidential Inputs Scheme should liaise with their extension officers. We also have public-private partnerships supporting the winter programme,” he said.
The Agricultural and Rural Development Authority (ARDA), tasked with strengthening the country’s strategic grain reserves, will contract farmers to plant 65,000 hectares this season.
ARDA Board Chairperson Mr Ivan Craig said all critical inputs have been secured.
“I urge farmers to work closely with their nearest agricultural extension officers to access support and ensure timely planting. We have mobilised all inputs for the intended hectarage, and some farmers have already started collecting,” he said.
If the programme proceeds as planned, Government’s target of over 660 000 tonnes of wheat production this year remains firmly on track.
