Wheat Self-Sufficiency Boosts Zimbabwe’s Food Security

Manicaland Province is on track for a record wheat harvest this year, with yields estimated at about 58,000 metric tonnes from 13,548 hectares planted.

Harvesting has already started in some parts of the province, while the bulk of farmers are expected to begin in October and continue into November. To prevent losses, experts stress that the crop must be collected before the rains arrive.

On a national scale, Zimbabwe is targeting 600,000 metric tonnes of wheat in 2025, the highest output since the crop was introduced in 1966. With consistent support from government, financial institutions, private contractors, and other partners, the country has managed to attain wheat self-sufficiency, ending dependence on imports.

Farmers are upbeat about this year’s crop, describing the season as relatively smooth. However, they are calling on the Grain Marketing Board (GMB) to speed up payments for grain deliveries in order to sustain their motivation.

Provincial Agriculture and Rural Development Advisory Services (ARDAS) director, Mr. Nhamo Mudada, confirmed that small-scale growers had started reaping their crops. He noted that assessments showed the wheat was generally healthy and likely to produce high-quality grades.

“Our winter wheat is performing extremely well. About 65 percent of the crop is in good condition, and 34 percent is fair. Harvesting should begin in earnest in early October and stretch into November because planting was extended up to June 15. Some smallholders in Chimanimani and Chipinge are already reaping manually using sickles, while the majority will rely on combine harvesters. We are confident of achieving our target of 58,000 tonnes, averaging five tonnes per hectare,” he said.

Headlands farmer Mr Tedious Nyikayaramba of Choko Farm said his harvesting would start in October and finish within four days. He is confident that the rains will not affect the process.

“We grew 40 hectares under contract with a private buyer. Timely delivery of inputs, a reliable water supply from dams, and improved electricity compared to previous years made a big difference. We expect about six tonnes per hectare of good-quality wheat. Wheat is less labour-intensive than many crops, but it must be harvested as soon as it matures; otherwise, rains can cause serious losses,” he said.

For Zimbabwe, self-sufficiency in wheat is vital for food security. It reduces the need for imports while improving the availability, affordability, and price stability of staple foods. Since wheat is the main raw material for bread and cereals, this boost in production is expected to benefit both the economy and household nutrition.