Harare,  (New Ziana) — The Grain Marketing Board (GMB) has received US$5 million from Treasury to pay farmers for cereal deliveries, a development expected to ease their financial pressures, and stimulate further investment in the agricultural sector, an official has said.

In a statement, GMB chief executive officer, Dr Edson Badarai said the funding will help clear part of outstanding payments to farmers who delivered grain to the national granary earlier this year.

“The Grain Marketing Board is pleased to announce that it has received US$5 million from Treasury to facilitate payments for cereals deliveries. This support will enable GMB to clear some of the outstanding obligations to farmers, bringing a positive impact on the agricultural sector as farmers will be able to reinvest in their operations,” said Badarai.

He expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development and its Minister, Dr. Anxious Masuka, for facilitating the release of the funds. “The board appreciates Treasury’s financial support and the continued guidance of Hon. Minister Dr. A. J. Masuka in ensuring smooth coordination of agricultural value chains,” he added.

Dr Badarai also paid tribute to the resilience and dedication of farmers across the country as preparations for the summer cropping season gather pace. “The GMB continues to honour the role of farmers and their resilience as the country gears for the summer season,” he said.

The funding is expected to boost confidence among grain producers, many of whom depend on timely payments to prepare for the next planting cycle.

New Ziana