The Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Agriculture, Mechanisation and Water Resources Development, Dr Obert Jiri has called for farmers across the country to urgently fast-track winter wheat planting ahead of the 31 May deadline.
In a statement yesterday, Dr Jiri urged farmers to accelerate harvesting of previous crops, land preparation, and wheat planting as the country moves deeper into the winter cropping window.
“We are calling on all farmers to intensify harvesting where crops are ready, speed up land preparation, and ensure that winter wheat planting is completed within the set timeframe,” he said.
He added that while Zimbabwe remains on track for a strong winter wheat season, weather-related constraints had slowed early progress in some farming areas.
“Zimbabwe remains on course for another strong winter wheat season despite delays caused by low temperatures and slow drying conditions,” he said.
Dr Jiri noted that the success of the winter wheat programme was central to the country’s broader food security strategy, particularly as Zimbabwe continues to reduce reliance on wheat imports.
He said Government support measures, including mechanisation services, irrigation infrastructure expansion, and input availability under various agricultural schemes, were aimed at ensuring farmers meet production targets.
“The success of the winter wheat programme is critical to national food security. We have put in place support systems to ensure farmers have access to inputs, mechanisation services and irrigation capacity,” he said.
The Permanent Secretary emphasised that coordination between farmers, irrigation schemes and agricultural extension services was essential to maximise productivity during the current season.
“Farmers must work closely with extension officers and irrigation authorities to ensure efficient use of available resources. Every day counts in this planting window,” he said.
He also highlighted the importance of climate-smart agricultural practices as weather variability continues to affect planting timelines in some regions.
“Adaptation to changing climatic conditions is now a necessity. Farmers are encouraged to adopt best agronomic practices that ensure resilience and productivity under varying conditions,” Dr Jiri said.
Government has repeatedly stated that winter wheat production remains a strategic priority, with national targets aimed at sustaining self-sufficiency and stabilising grain supply for milling and baking industries.
As such timely planting before the end of May is crucial for ensuring proper crop establishment, optimal growth cycles, and higher yields ahead of the harvesting period later in the year.
