Agriculture Reporter
Farmers across Zimbabwe are hopeful for a bumper harvest this season following consistent and widespread rains that have revived crops and improved water availability for irrigation.
The rainfall, which has been evenly distributed across the country, has come as a relief to many farmers who had been concerned about erratic weather patterns.
With crops now flourishing in most parts of the country, expectations are high for improved yields and enhanced food security at the household level.
In Mashonaland Central, farmers are already seeing the benefits of the steady rains.
Zvidzai Mutariri, a communal farmer from Mollis Village in Mt Darwin, said the rainfall had transformed his maize crop, which was previously showing signs of moisture stress.
“My maize was struggling due to the dry spell we had in December, but the rains in January and February have completely changed the situation. Right now, my crops are looking healthy, and if the rains continue like this, I expect a bumper harvest," Mutariri said.
Similar sentiments were shared by Patience Moyo, a farmer from Gokwe in the Midlands Province, who emphasized the importance of the current rains for both crops and livestock.
“The past two seasons were difficult because of unpredictable weather patterns, but this time we are seeing a consistent rainfall pattern. Not only are our crops doing well, but our livestock also have enough water and grazing pastures, which improves our overall agricultural output," she said.
In Manicaland, smallholder farmer Tafadzwa Chari from Nyanga said he was already preparing for a bumper harvest, particularly for traditional grains such as sorghum and millet, which have performed exceptionally well under the current weather conditions.
“The rains have come at the right time, and my sorghum is thriving. If this continues, we will have enough food for our families and surplus to sell," said Chari.
Meanwhile, in Matabeleland South, farmer Thomas Sibanda, from Plumtree, noted that while his region often receives less rainfall, this season had been an exception.
“In previous years, we struggled with prolonged dry spells, but this year we are seeing a big difference. We have received enough rain for our maize and sunflower crops, and water reservoirs are filling up, which is a huge relief," said Sibanda.
Agricultural experts say if the rainfall pattern remains favorable, Zimbabwe could experience improved grain reserves, reducing reliance on food imports and enhancing self-sufficiency.
Government has also urged farmers to continue following best agronomic practices to maximize yields.
According to the Meteorological Services Department, most parts of the country have received adequate rainfall, with forecasts indicating continued wet conditions in the coming weeks.
Experts say this will further boost crop growth and enhance the likelihood of food security at both household and national levels.
With more rains expected in the coming weeks, optimism remains high that the country will achieve food security and improved livelihoods for farming communities.
