Zimbabwe’s 2024/25 Maize Planting Nears Target as Harvest Prospects Look Promising

Zimbabwe’s maize planting for the 2024/25 agricultural season has reached 1,790,917 hectares, just shy of the government’s target of 1.8 million hectares. Despite some provinces falling short of their set goals, preliminary reports indicate a promising harvest, with most crops developing well under favorable conditions.

Provincial Performance in Maize Planting

Mashonaland West led the nation in planting efforts, exceeding its target of 360,000 hectares by reaching 360,276 hectares—marking a significant increase from last season’s 248,104 hectares. Masvingo and Mashonaland East also performed strongly, achieving 120% and 101% of their targets with 194,160 hectares and 242,470 hectares planted, respectively.

Mashonaland Central and Matabeleland North fell slightly short, planting 230,761 hectares (98% of target) and 111,670 hectares (102% of target). Meanwhile, Bulawayo faced the biggest challenge, managing only 7,463 hectares against a 10,000-hectare target, achieving just 75% of its goal.

Crop Condition and Growth Stages

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, Professor Obert Jiri, expressed optimism about the season’s outlook. He reported that 65% of the maize crop has reached the early reproductive stage and is in good condition.

“The report shows that 15% of the maize planted by the end of November 2024 has progressed to the soft dough and hard dough stages, indicating strong potential for a fruitful harvest. The remaining 20% of the crop, planted later in the season, is still in the vegetative stage and requires urgent top-dressing fertilizer to enhance growth and prevent nutrient loss,” said Professor Jiri.

He urged farmers to adopt best practices, including the split application of fertilizers, to maximize yields and sustain soil fertility.

Rise in Traditional Grain Cultivation

Beyond maize production, the latest Agricultural and Rural Development Advisory Services (ARDAS) report highlights a notable increase in the cultivation of traditional grains, with 418,000 hectares designated for sorghum and pearl millet. This shift reflects farmers’ resilience and commitment to growing drought-tolerant crops in response to climate challenges.

Mashonaland West planted 32,000 hectares of sorghum, reaching 90% of its target, an improvement from last year’s 28,941 hectares. Midlands and Masvingo each planted 61,000 hectares, achieving 96% and 89% of their targets, respectively. Matabeleland North and Matabeleland South exceeded expectations, meeting 100% of their targets with 38,300 and 44,200 hectares planted.

Pearl millet production also saw a boost. Manicaland led with 12,653 hectares planted, achieving 94% of its target, while Midlands and Masvingo planted 9,744 hectares and 34,510 hectares, reaching 89% and 100% of their respective goals.

Pest Management and Winter Cropping Preparations

Professor Jiri emphasized the importance of pest control, urging farmers to remain vigilant against the fall armyworm and African armyworm, which pose a threat to crops. He advised them to rotate pesticides to prevent resistance and take immediate action when infestations are detected.

As the rainy season progresses, preparations for winter cropping have commenced, particularly for farmers who have recently harvested irrigated tobacco. The government and agricultural stakeholders are organizing field days and farm visits to equip farmers with the necessary skills for a successful transition into winter cropping.

With promising crop development and increased traditional grain cultivation, Zimbabwe’s agricultural sector remains on course for a potentially strong harvest, reinforcing national food security and resilience in the face of climate variability.