ZIMBABWE has announced an ambitious plan to cultivate 120 000 hectares of winter wheat in 2025.
The initiative is expected to yield a record-breaking 600 000 tonnes, surpassing last year’s 562 591 tonnes and significantly exceeding the national self-sufficiency threshold of 360 000 tonnes.
In a statement, Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development minister Anxious Masuka emphasised that the expansion is critical for national food security and economic stability.
“We are ensuring that Zimbabwe remains wheat self-sufficient and reduces reliance on imports,” Masuka said.
“This initiative aligns with Vision 2030, enhancing food security, reducing the import bill and driving rural industrialisation.”
The expansion also includes increased production of barley and potatoes, with barley cultivation expected to cover 6 500 hectares, producing 39 000 tonnes, while potatoes will be grown on 8 657 hectares, with a projected yield of 236 250 tonnes.
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Zimbabwe Commercial Farmers Union president Shadreck Makombe welcomed the development, saying it represents a significant boost for the agricultural sector.
“This expansion not only strengthens food security but also ensures that farmers benefit from government and private sector support,” he said.
“We urge farmers to take full advantage of these opportunities and increase their production efficiency.”
The Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company (ZETDC) has pledged to prioritise electricity supply to irrigation clusters, minimising disruptions that could affect wheat production.
ZETDC spokesperson George Manyaya reassured stakeholders that energy supply remains top priority.
“We are working closely with farmers and Zinwa [Zimbabwe National Water Authority] to ensure consistent electricity supply to irrigation clusters, minimising power outages during critical production phases,” he said.
Farmers have also been encouraged to implement sustainable water management practices.
Agritex chief director Stancilae Tapererwa advised farmers to adopt rainwater harvesting techniques to guarantee irrigation sustainability.
“With climate change affecting rainfall patterns, it is crucial for farmers to store water effectively and ensure uninterrupted wheat production,” Tapererwa said.
With this ambitious expansion, Zimbabwe is taking bold strides towards agricultural resilience.
The record winter wheat production will not only enhance food security, but also reduce import dependence, strengthen rural economies and contribute to the country’s broader economic goals under Vision 2030.