Zimbabwe has recorded a significant increase in grain deliveries during the 2026 grain marketing season, with maize deliveries more than doubling compared to the same period last year.
In a statement, yesterday, the Grain Marketing Board (GMB) said the upward trend was also reflected in deliveries of other strategic crops.
“With the 2026 grain marketing season peak now almost over, Zimbabwe has recorded a strong recovery in grain deliveries.
Maize deliveries more than doubled by 106% to 312,717 metric tonnes as of 24 July 2026, up from 152,047 tonnes during the same period last year.
Soybean deliveries had increased by 58% to 45,744 metric tonnes, while sorghum deliveries rose by 15% to 31,951 metric tonnes. However, sunflower deliveries declined by 8% to 5,181 metric tonnes compared to the same period last year,” the board added.
According to the GMB, the improved grain intake represents a significant milestone in strengthening Zimbabwe’s food security position, reducing the country’s reliance on grain imports.
“The higher deliveries strengthen national food security as Zimbabwe requires about 2.2 million tonnes of grain annually, including approximately 400,000 tonnes for the livestock sector,” the Board said.
The GMB noted that Government remains committed to building the country’s Strategic Grain Reserve, which is targeted at 450,000 metric tonnes, to cushion the nation against potential food shortages arising from climate-related shocks and other disruptions.
“Government is also building toward its 450,000-tonne Strategic Grain Reserve, making the improved deliveries a positive step in reducing import dependence and enhancing food security,” said the GMB.
The substantial increase in maize deliveries is expected to improve national grain stocks while ensuring adequate supplies for both human consumption and livestock feed requirements.
With the peak grain marketing period nearing its end, the latest figures indicate Zimbabwe’s progress towards achieving sustainable food security and strengthening the resilience of its agricultural sector through enhanced domestic production and strategic grain stockholding initiatives.
