Harare,  (New Ziana) – The Grain Marketing Board (GMB) has received an additional US$5 million and ZiG15 million to pay farmers for wheat delivered to its depots throughout the country last year, bringing the cumulative disbursement to US$23 million and ZiG230 million so far, an official has said.

The funding, released by Treasury last week, comes at a crucial time as farmers across the country prepare for the winter wheat cropping season.

In a statement, GMB chief executive officer Dr Edson Badarai commended the Ministry of Finance and Economic Development for its continued efforts in mobilising resources to support the agricultural sector.

“We greatly appreciate all the efforts being put in place by Treasury to mobilise resources as farmers prepare for the winter wheat cropping season,” he said.

Dr Badarai also acknowledged the vital role that local farmers play, highlighting their resilience and commitment as essential to the drive for the country to become food self-sufficient.

“The Board greatly appreciates the resilience and undoubted commitment and dedication of our farmers as the country drives towards a wheat-based food self-sufficiency,” he said.

Wheat is a key strategic crop for Zimbabwe, and the government has prioritised its production to reduce reliance on imports and stabilise local food supplies and prices.

With winter wheat planting activities underway, stakeholders say timely payments and resource mobilisation remain essential to meeting the country’s food security goals.

New Ziana