Zimbabwe steps up preps for 2025/26 summer cropping season

The Government has assured the nation that preparations for the 2025/26 summer cropping season are at an advanced stage, with early input distribution already underway across the country as part of ongoing efforts to boost agricultural productivity and ensure food security.

Permanent Secretary for Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, Professor Obert Jiri, said critical inputs such as seed and fertiliser were readily available and distribution was progressing smoothly.

"The preparations for the summer season are now well advanced. Seed for both maize and traditional grains is available, and deliveries are being made to all areas as expeditiously as possible," said Prof Jiri.

He added that fertilisers were being transported to Grain Marketing Board (GMB) depots nationwide, with the bulk expected to reach farmers before the onset of the rains. "We anticipate that most inputs will be with the farmers ahead of the start of the rains," he said.

In Matabeleland North Province, farmers are already gearing up for the season, taking advantage of early rains that have improved soil moisture. The timely rollout of inputs under the Presidential Inputs Scheme and the Pfumvudza/Intwasa programme has further boosted enthusiasm among farmers.

According to Agricultural and Rural Development Advisory Services (ARDAS) Matabeleland North director, Mr Mkhunjulelwa Ndlovu, most districts still have carryover inputs from the previous season, including fertiliser, sunflower seed, and pesticides used to control fall armyworm.

"Nkayi District has already received 60 tonnes of Compound D fertiliser, and more consignments are expected to cover the entire province," said Mr Ndlovu. He noted that authorities had assured them that all inputs would be delivered before heavy rains begin, particularly in hard-to-reach areas like Lusulu and Binga.

Input packages have already been distributed to traditional leaders, including chiefs and kraal heads, while farmers in areas such as Umguza (Mbembesi) have received inputs after completing their Pfumvudza plots.

Mr Ndlovu said many farmers were complementing Government efforts by purchasing additional seed and using organic manure to boost soil fertility. "We have been encouraging them to buy seed, manage soil fertility, and apply manure. We are seeing a lot of traction and commitment from farmers," he said.

Seed shops in Bulawayo have also stocked up on key agricultural inputs such as maize seed, sorghum, sunflower, and fertiliser, ensuring easy access for both communal and commercial farmers. Dealers reported strong demand as farmers prepare for the new season, with many opting to plant traditional grains that are more tolerant to drought and heat.

Traditional leaders have also confirmed readiness for the season. Chief Menyezwa of Lupane District said inputs would be distributed in the coming days following communication from Government officials. "We got official communication from the District Development Coordinator and ARDAS that distribution of seeds and fertilisers will be done next week," he said.

Nationally, the Government has launched the 2025/26 Summer Cropping Season Plan, targeting the planting of 1.8 million hectares of maize, 516 000 hectares of sorghum, and 280 000 hectares of traditional grains.

The Pfumvudza/Intwasa programme continues to record remarkable progress, with over eight million plots prepared so far-representing 75 percent of the target. Introduced under the Second Republic to boost productivity and build climate resilience, the programme remains a cornerstone of Zimbabwe's food security strategy.

This season, Government support is expected to reach three million beneficiaries, with each farmer cultivating at least two to three plots. Each input package includes seed, basal and top-dressing fertiliser, and agronomic training.

Meanwhile, contracting of farmers under the National Enhanced Agricultural Productivity Scheme (NEAPS) is underway, while funding for agricultural programmes is being jointly mobilised by the Government, private sector, and development partners to ensure timely input supply.

Authorities also plan to distribute inputs according to agro-ecological regions to maximise yields and enhance climate adaptation.

With preparations advancing steadily, Matabeleland North and other provinces are expected to make significant contributions to national food security, further consolidating the success of conservation agriculture initiatives under the Second Republic.