Staff Reporter

Zimbabwe is expected to receive normal to above normal rainfall during the 2024/2025 summer cropping season, a good fortune for farmers and the agricultural sector.

In a Post Cabinet Press Briefing, Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Dr. Jenfan Muswere indicated that the country is set to receive good rainfall from October to December 2024

 “During the 2024/2025 summer season the country is expected to receive normal rainfall. However, the month of October is expected to be drier than the long term average but from November onwards the forecast is for normal to above normal,” said Dr. Rushwaya

Moreover, the predicted normal rainfall is likely to increase dam levels and bring a longer crop growing period boosting crop yields, particularly for maize, tobacco and cotton, this will not only improve food security but also increase export earnings.

Speaking to this publication, Mazoe based farmer Nick Chingwaru stressed on the importance of the good rains and preparedness in order to have improved yields.

“Firstly good rains are important to us and animals.  It is a relief to hear the predicted rains, we are geared and ready for the summer farming season. It is our plea that Government avails funds and subsidies on inputs so that every farmer is guaranteed better harvests.

Horticulture enthusiast, from Gutu, only identified as Regis, stressed on how improved rains could complement the     struggling irrigation schemes and resuscitate grazing pastures during the ongoing drought.

“Enhanced rainfall will bring relief to farmers, leading to better crop yields and revitalised irrigation systems, as well as improved grazing pastures and increased hydroelectric power generation, ultimately driving agricultural growth,” said Regis.

Meanwhile, the severe El Niño-induced drought affecting Southern Africa has devastated Zimbabwe, prompting the Government to declare national emergency and allocate resources to bolster food security measures.