Harare, (New Ziana) – The Grain Millers Association of Zimbabwe (GMAZ), through its members, has already purchased over 35,000 tonnes of wheat from the Agricultural and Rural Development Authority (ARDA) during the ongoing marketing season, an official has said. GMAZ secretary, Moses Maunganidze announced the development on Wednesday in Harare during the signing of a landmark agreement with ARDA for the supply of 200,000 metric tonnes of non-GMO white maize.
This wheat buying shows our continued support for local farmers and national food security,” Maunganidze said. “We are committed to reducing imports and strengthening local grain supply chains.” The new deal will see ARDA cultivating and supplying maize to GMAZ members between April 1, 2026 and March 30, 2027.
Deliveries will be made to areas such as Harare, Bulawayo, and Mutare, with a fixed price of USD $355 per metric tonne. Maunganidze said that the association would continue to procure more wheat during the remaining six to eight weeks of the marketing season. “Our members are still active on the market, and we expect to increase our wheat intake significantly before the end of the season,” he added.
Due to global supply challenges and rising input costs, Maunganidze said GMAZ remained determined to prioritise local sourcing. “It is important to build resilience within our own systems. That is why we are investing in partnerships that support domestic production and protect our economy from external shocks,” he said. He also revealed that structured agreements like the one signed with ARDA form part of GMAZ’s long-term strategy.
“This deal is not just about maize. It’s about building a reliable, farmer-focused value chain that supports productivity, guarantees supply, and creates sustainable business opportunities across the agriculture sector,” Maunganidze explained. ARDA operations director, Shingirai Jenah hailed the agreement as a milestone that bridges the long standing gap between primary producers and the commercial market.
“This partnership is a big step in linking farmers with buyers, Jenah said. “It will boost local production and reduce our dependence on imports, which have been draining our much needed and scarce foreign currency.”
He added that the agreement also supports smallholder farmers, promotes structured markets, and helps align private sector and government efforts. “Together with GMAZ, we are creating a national model that supports localised value chains, enhances food security, and ensures the participation of women, youth, and vulnerable communities in agriculture,” said Jenah.
New Ziana
