ARDA Restructured to Lead National Grain Security Drive

The GOVERNMENT has restructured the Agricultural and Rural Development Authority (ARDA) and tasked it with contributing 850,000 tonnes of cereals to the Strategic Grain Reserve a year, making it the country’s main food security agency.

Addressing a post-Cabinet media briefing in Harare yesterday, Information, Publicity, and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr. Jenfan Muswere said ARDA had been mandated with the crucial role of ensuring steady food supply for the nation, as sustained food security and self-sufficiency remain the government’s top priority.

“The cabinet noted the update on the 2024-2025 summer crops marketing and 2025 winter wheat production program,” said Dr. Muswere.

“The ARDA has been restructured to serve as the country’s food security agency, with a mandate to produce 850,000 tonnes of cereals annually and thereby contribute 95 percent to the Strategic Grain Reserve (SGR).”

He said the government remained positive that a considerable grain surplus would be achieved during the current marketing season, adding that timely payments to farmers were being facilitated.