The Meteorological Services Department (MSD) is helping Zimbabwean farmers navigate the rainy season by providing timely and accurate weather forecasts, officials say.
MSD Meteorologist, Isaac Musawana told this publication, yesterday, that the department is collaborating with the Global Climate Fund (GCF) through UNDP, the Ministry of Agriculture, and the Zimbabwe National Water Authority (ZINWA) to provide integrated weather updates to farmers across Manicaland, Masvingo, Matabeleland South, Matabeleland North, Midlands, and Mashonaland Central.
“Forecasts are shared in local languages through community radio stations to reach farmers directly,” Musawana said.
He added that weather data is also critical for sectors such as aviation, where it impacts flight safety and planning.
The department is complementing seasonal rains with cloud seeding in areas with low rainfall, further supporting agricultural productivity.
Since November 2025, the country has experienced normal to above-normal rainfall, a trend expected to continue through March 2026 due to La Niña conditions. MSD forecasts are enabling farmers to plan planting, harvesting, and resource management, reducing risks of crop failure and financial loss.
As climate change poses ongoing challenges, MSD’s forecasts are a vital tool for food security. Government initiatives, including the climate-resilient Pvumvudza and Intwasa farming model launched in 2020, aim to promote sustainable practices among smallholder farmers.
