Government scales up preparations to fight envisaged drought

Government has unveiled a six-pillar drought preparedness plan for the 2026/27 agricultural season as it moves to cushion the country against the effects of a possible El Niño weather phenomenon. 

Addressing journalists in Harare this Wednesday, Agricultural and Rural Development Advisory Services (ARDAS) chief director Medlina Magwenzi said the ministry had begun planning early after indications that the upcoming season could experience drought conditions, although no official El Niño declaration has yet been made.

The plan is anchored on strengthening the strategic grain reserve, promoting climate-smart agriculture, mobilising agricultural financing, protecting livestock, facilitating food imports where necessary and enhancing coordination and early warning systems.

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