Harare, (New Ziana) – The Grain Marketing Board (GMB) has embarked on a nationwide rollout of Artificial Intelligence (AI)-powered smart silos, with 14 such state-of-the-art facilities set to transform the grain handling and storage system in the country.
In an interview with New Ziana, GMB corporate communications manager, Nixon Kanyemba said provinces including Manicaland, Midlands, Matabeleland North, Matabeleland South and Masvingo will soon benefit from the program, which is anchored on modern technology and enhanced efficiency.
“In line with the President’s vision of leaving no one and no place behind, these AI-driven smart silos are being constructed in virtually all provinces. On May 6, His Excellency the President Dr. ED Mnangagwa commissioned the Kwekwe silo. We are happy to announce that it is now fully operational, receiving grain from farmers across the country,” he said.
Kanyemba said construction of the smart silos in Mutare, Manicland province and Mhangura, Mashonaland West province is nearing completion, with work progressing steadily at other earmarked sites. He described the new facilities as a “game-changer,” noting that the AI-powered systems can automatically handle complex tasks that were previously difficult to manage.
“For instance, if farmers deliver grain with high moisture content above 12.5 percent, we no longer turn them away. The smart silos can now dry the grain to the required standard, ensuring better quality control,” he explained.
The facilities are fitted with advanced volumetric sensors that measure storage levels in real time and reduce the need for manual intervention. Through digital integration, the silos can communicate directly with operators’ mobile phones or laptops.
“This means that someone sitting at Head Office in Harare can monitor what is happening in Kwekwe in real time and guide supply chain managers accordingly. Previously, we would wait for written reports, but with our digital platforms, oversight is instant and accurate,” said Kanyemba.
He added that the smart silos would assist guarantee both the quality and safety of grain distributed to millers and consumers, in line with the government thrust to modernize agriculture and strengthen national food security.
New Ziana
