Against the backdrop of Africa’s annual food import bill ranging between US$80 billion and US$100 billion, Zimbabwe is seizing the opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the Association of Commodities Exchanges (A-ACX) to position itself as a major commodities exporter.
During the official opening, Zimbabwe showcased its increasing capacity to supply surplus agricultural products to regional markets. Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water, and Rural Development, Dr. Anxious Masuka, emphasized Zimbabwe’s achievements, noting:
“Having achieved wheat self-sufficiency three seasons ago, Zimbabwe now produces an annual surplus of 250,000 metric tonnes of wheat, in addition to 290 million kilograms of tobacco, sugar surpluses, and a range of horticultural products. With enhanced value addition, efficient pricing models, risk mitigation strategies, and improved logistics, Zimbabwe is well-positioned to drive intra-African trade.”
These developments align with AfCFTA’s broader goal of reducing Africa’s reliance on external food imports by expanding regional trade and enhancing the efficiency of the continent’s agricultural markets.
A-ACX Chairperson Ms. Tucci Ivowi acknowledged Zimbabwe’s increasing role, particularly in wheat production, highlighting its potential to supply other African nations that struggle to meet domestic demand.
“Zimbabwe is a key player in wheat production. With more African countries expressing interest in sourcing wheat, Zimbabwe’s surplus production offers a significant opportunity for intra-continental trade,” she said.
To sustain this momentum, Zimbabwe has launched various initiatives aimed at scaling up agricultural productivity, including:
Expanding irrigation schemes to ensure year-round production.
Developing village business units to commercialize rural agriculture.
Climate-proofing farming practices to enhance resilience against extreme weather conditions.
Issuing title deeds to farmers to promote investment and secure land tenure.
The A-ACX, established under AfCFTA’s Guided Trade Initiative, currently brings together 16 national and regional commodities exchanges. The association seeks to improve the commodities trade ecosystem, foster regional economic growth, and attract investments in Africa’s agricultural and natural resources sectors.
As Zimbabwe continues its agricultural transformation, the country is poised to play a critical role in achieving food security and sustainable trade within Africa, reinforcing its position as a key player in the continent’s economic integration agenda.
