By Simbarashe Muparaganda
Bulawayo, (New Ziana) – Zimbabwe has exceeded its 2026 winter wheat planting target, with 126 394 hectares under the crop against a planned 125 000 hectares, an official has said.
Speaking during a winter wheat production update on Thursday, Agricultural and Rural Development Advisory Services (ARDAS) chief director Medlinah Magwenzi commended farmers, extension officers and stakeholders across the agricultural value chain for surpassing the set target.
“We are happy to say that our plan was to produce 125 000 hectares, up from 120 000 hectares last season. As we speak right now, we have planted 126 394 hectares, which is above our target and translates to 101 percent achievement,” she said.
She said wheat production has become a strategic national priority, extending beyond traditional uses such as bread and confectionery products to play a critical role in the country’s food security framework.
“Wheat production in the country is no longer for cosmetics like bread, buns and scones only. It is now part of our strategic grain reserves and staple food system. Zimbabweans survived one of the drought periods through wheat production, which is why we are taking it very seriously,” she said.
Magwenzi attributed the achievement to extensive planning and coordination among farmers, government departments, extension officers and input suppliers, adding that inputs were distributed on time, enabling farmers to plant within the recommended window.
She noted that with the planting target achieved, attention was now shifting to maximising yields through improved agronomic practices and efficient resource management.
“The next critical target is production. We are now focusing on yield per hectare through agro-ecological tailoring and sound agronomic practices. Irrigation management is key, especially in areas with limited water supplies. Farmers must use water efficiently and avoid wastage,” she said.
Magwenzi implored growers to adhere to recommended fertiliser application schedules and seek technical guidance from ARDAS specialists stationed across the country.
“Our agronomists are on the ground providing production tips and guidance. Farmers should tap into these experts to ensure their wheat receives the correct nutrition and management required for optimum yields,” she said.
She also stressed the importance of weed, pest and disease control, as well as adapting production practices to prevailing climatic conditions.
Mangwenzi added that wheat planted during the different planting phases would require tailored management interventions, particularly regarding fertiliser application and irrigation scheduling.
Zimbabwe has in recent years increased winter wheat production as part of government efforts to attain self-sufficiency in wheat and reduce reliance on imports, with irrigation-supported farming playing a central role in the country’s agricultural transformation agenda.
New Ziana
