The Grain Marketing Board (GMB) has cleared all outstanding payments to wheat farmers and confirmed that funds are in place to purchase this year’s crop, providing a boost to national food security and farmers’ confidence.
GMB Chief Executive Edson Badarai recently announced that the agency had received nearly ZWG70 million from Treasury, covering both past arrears and upcoming wheat deliveries.
“The GMB has received ZWG69,997,798 from Treasury. These funds have cleared outstanding obligations for wheat deliveries, while a total of ZWG57,102,258 is earmarked for current cereal deliveries,” Badarai said.
He commended farmers for their patience and reiterated the agency’s commitment to ensuring grain self-sufficiency in Zimbabwe.
Badarai also expressed gratitude to Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development Anxious Masuka for facilitating the disbursement of funds from Treasury.
Local farmers welcomed the announcement, describing it as a significant relief.
“It is reassuring to know that the GMB has the money ready to pay us for this season’s wheat. Prompt payments make a huge difference to our operations and planning,” said Tendai Moyo, a wheat farmer from Gweru.
Another farmer, Grace Chikodzi from Kwekwe, highlighted the impact on productivity.
“Knowing that we will be paid on time gives us confidence to invest in better inputs and equipment. It shows that the Government and GMB value our work and are serious about food security,’’ said Chikodzi.
The timely funding ensures that farmers will receive payment for both previous and current crops, reinforcing trust in Zimbabwe’s wheat procurement system.
Analysts say that such financial certainty encourages greater production and supports the country’s goal of achieving sustainable grain self-sufficiency.
With GMB ready to purchase this year’s wheat, stakeholders anticipate a smoother marketing season and strengthened farmer-government relations, contributing to Zimbabwe’s broader agricultural and food security objectives.
