Rainfall boosts prospects for 2024/2025 summer cropping season in Zimbabwe

The recent widespread rainfall across Zimbabwe has significantly improved crop conditions, particularly maize, raising hopes for a successful 2024/2025 summer cropping season.

Following an earlier period of normal to below-normal rains in October, November, and December, which caused moisture stress for some crops, the latest rains have provided much-needed relief. The Meteorological Services Department projects that normal to above-normal rains will continue through March.

Over the past 36 hours, Binga recorded the highest rainfall at 130 millimeters (mm), followed by Matopos (35mm), Kadoma (33mm), Plumtree (32mm), and Gokwe (30mm). Other areas, such as Gweru and Zvishavane, reported rainfall between 19mm and 26mm.

Agricultural Advisory and Rural Development Services (AARDS) acting chief director Mr. Leonard Munamati confirmed that the rains have revitalized early-planted crops, particularly those sown in October and November.
"Farmers must wind up planting as we are already behind time," Munamati urged, adding that over 1,448,684 hectares have been planted with maize so far, along with 322,606 hectares of traditional grains and 85,000 hectares of tobacco.

Government initiatives such as-PFumvudza/Intwasa, the National Enhanced Agriculture Productivity Scheme, and support from private sector players have significantly contributed to the improved conditions. Early distribution of inputs has also played a vital role, with 64% of basal dressing fertiliser and 120% of maize seed targets delivered to Grain Marketing Board (GMB) depots.

Farmers have been encouraged to take advantage of the current wet spell to apply top-dressing fertilizer using the split application method for better crop growth. They are also being advised to adopt region-specific seed varieties, practice timely weeding, and scout for pests such as the fall armyworm.

Mr. Sibangilizwe Dlodlo, AARDS director of training and information, emphasized ongoing training for farmers through 35,000 field schools to ensure adherence to proper agronomic practices from planting to crop maturity.

In Matabeleland South, farmers are fully engaged in planting activities, with dams filling up due to substantial rains. However, challenges such as inadequate plowing equipment and weak animals remain in some areas.

In Matabeleland North, authorities have emphasized planting ultra-short-season varieties and traditional grains to withstand the region's climatic conditions.

Farmers across the country have expressed gratitude for the Government's timely interventions.
"We are thankful for the support received. With expected good rainfall, I anticipate a bountiful harvest this season," said Gogo Christine Gwenzi of Nyakurimwa village.

Mr. Tendai Mangudzi of Mhangura noted that the-PFumvudza/Intwasa programme has been a game-changer, helping him maximize water capture through potholing techniques.

The Government is targeting a total crop area of three million hectares and aims to produce over 3.2 million tonnes of cereals to ensure national food security. The extension of the tobacco seedbed destruction deadline to January 15, 2025, is expected to support rain-fed dryland tobacco production.

With continued rains and adherence to good agronomic practices, Zimbabwe is on course for a productive cropping season, contributing to the national goal of achieving food security and advancing towards an upper-middle-income economy by 2030.