Excessive rains threaten harvest in Zimbabwe

Excessive rainfall across Manicaland Province is threatening to damage harvest-ready crops, raising fears of reduced yields and compromised quality, agronomists have warned.

Persistent downpours in recent weeks have created conditions conducive to crop damage, with experts cautioning that prolonged moisture exposure could trigger cob rots and the premature sprouting of grains and pulses.

The development comes at a time when farmers had been anticipating a bumper harvest, despite an earlier mid-season dry spell that nearly derailed production prospects.

According to the Meteorological Services Department, cumulative rainfall since October has been significantly high across the province. Buhera has recorded 472.4mm, while Chipinge has received 1,008.1mm.

Other areas have registered even higher totals, with Chidengu in Chimanimani recording 1,247.2mm and Mukandi in Mutasa reaching 1,661.9mm. Nyanga recorded 1,179mm, while Mutare and Rusape received 925.8mm and 1,003mm respectively.

Meteorological officials say the rains are likely to persist. MSD Manicaland focal person Tapiwa Maringo said conditions point to continued rainfall until the end of March.

Agricultural experts have expressed concern over the timing of the rains, particularly as crops approach maturity.

Provincial director for Agricultural and Rural Development Advisory Services (ARDAS), Nhamo Mudada, said excessive moisture at this stage could negatively affect yields.

"We are assessing the extent of these rains on our harvest-ready crops like sorghum, millets, groundnuts and maize. However, it is true that excessive moisture at this stage of crop growth is associated with cob rots, sprouting of some grains, and pulses may also occur," he said.

While the rains pose risks, Mudada noted that they also bring benefits for food security. Root crops such as sweet potatoes, cassava and yams are expected to benefit, while rising water levels in dams and improved grazing conditions are positive for livestock.

"We are happy to say that these rains are helping, especially crops like sweet potatoes, cassava and yams. They are also adding to water levels in our dams, and the veld for livestock remains green and fresh," he said.

The official Second Round Crops, Livestock and Fisheries Assessment (CLAFA-2), conducted by the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, is expected next month and will provide a clearer picture of the season's output.

Harvesting in most parts of Manicaland is expected to begin in the first 10 days of April, with authorities still optimistic about overall yields.

Mudada added that preparations for the winter wheat season are already underway, with farmers being registered for production.

"We want to exceed last year's achievements," he said.

Despite the risks posed by excessive rains, expectations of a strong agricultural season remain, pending the outcome of the forthcoming CLAFA-2 assessment.