Govt to roll out inputs

LIVINGSTONE MARUFU

Government plans to distribute inputs early under the Pfumvudza/Intwasa Programme in the coming weeks, aiming to give farmers a strong start ahead of the 2025/2026 summer cropping season, Business Times can report.

In previous seasons, inputs were provided in stages, but this time authorities said they would supply farmers in full, in a single distribution, to improve efficiency.

Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development permanent secretary Professor Obert Jiri said the early rollout underscores the country’s commitment to supporting farmers and boosting food production.

“The government’s summer plan is ready for rollout, with emphasis on ensuring that farmers receive the right inputs on time and in full. At the centre of this year’s plan is the Pfumvudza/Intwasa Programme, targeting three million rural households,” Prof Jiri said.

He stressed that this support will focus exclusively on rural farmers, with peri-urban areas excluded from allocations this season.

Alongside Pfumvudza, other national programmes remain on track, including NEAPS, the Command Agriculture initiative run through CBZ, AFC and NMB, and partnerships with the Food Crop Contractors Association (FCCA) and private sector players.

Zimbabwe is well-prepared in terms of inputs. Seed stocks are already adequate and are being moved to Grain Marketing Board depots, while fertiliser availability has been strengthened by carryover supplies from the winter season.

“Ongoing collaboration with suppliers is expected to keep stocks stable throughout the planting period. With these preparations in place, farmers across the nation can look forward to a season of growth, resilience, and productivity,” Prof Jiri said.

Zimbabwe Commercial Farmers Union president Dr Shadreck Makombe welcomed the early distribution, saying it could give farmers a critical head start.

“This will give farmers more time to prepare for the 2025/2026 summer cropping season as they are able to plant and apply fertilizers as well as herbicides on time,” Dr Makombe said.

Agritex officers nationwide have also added new beneficiaries using new tablets that capture information in real time.

While there is no clear picture yet of how rainfall patterns will unfold, the government has promised a better season, with meteorologists expecting a delayed start.

“We are reassuring the farmers that the upcoming summer cropping season is set to be more promising than last year. With forecasts of normal to above-normal rainfall and strong support systems already in place, farmers can look forward to a productive season ahead,” Prof Jiri said.