Bulawayo, (New Ziana) – The country’s prospects for a bumper harvest this season have been boosted by unusually good rains, but farmers have been urged to remain vigilant against emerging threats such as African and fall armyworms.
Speaking on the progress of the current agricultural season on Wednesday, Permanent Secretary for Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, Prof. Obert Jiri said the country is experiencing rainfall patterns comparable to the historic seasons of the 1970s, which were both associated with high national crop output.
“While we are thankful for the green fields, we know that this much water brings its own set of ‘good problems.
“In places like Chisumbanje and Gokwe, the primary challenge has shifted from, ‘When will it rain?’ to, ‘How do we stop our crops from drowning?” said Prof Jiri.
He noted that excessive rainfall has led to waterlogging and nitrogen leaching in some areas, resulting in yellowing crops.
However, Prof Jiri stressed that these challenges are preferable to drought conditions that cripple production entirely.
To address the effects of excessive moisture, he said, the Ministry is promoting foliar feeding, particularly in areas where fields are too wet for tractors to operate.
“Liquid fertilisers are being applied directly to crop leaves during short breaks in the rain to correct nutrient deficiencies.
“Government is also streamlining the arrival of duty-free fertilisers to ensure that the nitrogen gap is bridged before the sun returns in full force,” Prof Jiri said.
Despite the optimism, he cautioned that the next phase of the season could bring new risks.
“With the Meteorological Services Department forecasting a brief reduction in rainfall around January 24, rising temperatures are expected to create favourable conditions for pests and weeds.
“Warmer conditions, especially in the southern parts of the country, could trigger an upsurge in African Armyworm and Fall Armyworm,” Prof Jiri warned.
He urged farmers to intensify field monitoring and respond quickly to any signs of infestation.
“Stay in the fields, maintain constant scouting, and lean on local Agricultural Business Advisory Officers (ABAO),” he said.
Zimbabwe’s agriculture sector is central to food security and rural livelihoods, and early assessments suggest that if current conditions are well managed, the country could record one of its best harvests in years.
Analysts say sustained rainfall has improved soil moisture levels nationwide, benefiting maize, small grains and other staple crops.
“The potential for a historic harvest is within reach provided Zimbabwe manages this abundance with precision and care,” Prof Jiri said.
New Ziana
