Harare, (New Ziana) – Zimbabwe remains on track to meet its winter crops production targets, while tobacco and cotton deliveries have significantly surpassed last year’s figures, reflecting resilience in the agriculture sector despite climatic challenges, a Cabinet Minister has said.
Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister, Dr Jenfan Muswere said this on Tuesday while presenting an update on the 2024 to 2025 Summer Crops Marketing and the 2025 Winter Crops Production Plan.
He said as of September 2, the Grain Marketing Board (GMB) held a total stock of 135 896 metric tons, comprising 70 666 metric tons of wheat, with the balance made up of maize, traditional grains and Genetically Modified Maize imports.
“In terms of crops marketed, the GMB has 8.3 percent of the intake, compared to 12,7 percent recorded over the same period in 2024. The total marketed grain now stands at 840 562 metric tons,” he said.
On tobacco, Dr Muswere noted strong growth, with 354.8 million kilograms sold so far, up from 231.8 million kilograms in 2024. Cotton deliveries have also surged, reaching 28 205 407 kilograms compared to 13 551 021 kilograms sold over the same period last year.
Cabinet also received a report on winter wheat production, showing that 122 566 hectares have been planted, surpassing the national target of 120 000 hectares with authorities reassuring the nation that resources are in place to protect the crop from pests.
“There is enough manpower, vehicles, sprayers and chemicals to respond to quelea bird outbreaks, and localized district teams of first responders have been activated,” said Dr Muswere.
The positive performance in tobacco, cotton, and wheat, combined with government interventions to support farmers, is expected to boost national food security and enhance agricultural contribution to economic growth.
New Ziana
