Zimbabwe eyes new wheat record

Zimbabwe has officially commenced its 2026 winter cropping season, with authorities expressing confidence in another strong wheat harvest as planting progresses nationwide.

The government is targeting 662 500 tonnes of wheat this season, supported by expanded irrigation schemes, public-private partnerships and the ongoing distribution of agricultural inputs.

The ambition follows a series of record-breaking harvests that have moved Zimbabwe close to wheat self-sufficiency, although the country still imports small volumes to supplement local production and ensure consistent milling quality.

In the 2025 season, Zimbabwe produced over 639 000 tonnes of wheat, surpassing national consumption levels estimated at 615 000 tonnes.

Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Development Secretary Obert Jiri said the wheat planting window—running from May 1 to May 31—is now open, urging farmers to accelerate planting to maximise yields.

The government is targeting 125 000 hectares under wheat, alongside 7 000 hectares of barley and more than 9 000 hectares of potatoes as part of broader efforts to strengthen national food security.

"That is the target and so far all our inputs for the Presidential Input Support Programme for wheat are available, with distribution having already started in all areas," Jiri said.

Farmers under the Presidential Input Support Programme are receiving a full input package including seed, Compound D fertiliser, top dressing fertiliser and herbicides. Private sector initiatives, including contract farming arrangements, are also contributing inputs, although some logistical delays have been reported.

"We are urging all farmers to hasten their planting so that we are ahead of the cut-off date," Jiri said, warning that late planting beyond May 31 could negatively affect yields.

He added that despite global supply disruptions affecting fertiliser availability, the government is working to ensure inputs reach farmers on time.

"It's game on for wheat farmers and we are expecting another very good winter wheat season as we focus on ensuring wheat security ahead of the summer season," he said.

Zimbabwe's wheat production has risen dramatically over the past decade, climbing from below 100 000 tonnes to successive record highs, with recent harvests positioning the country as one of the few wheat self-sufficient nations in the region.