As the summer cropping season draws to a close, Zimbabwe’s agricultural sector is now turning its focus toward winter production—placing wheat at the center of the agenda. The government has come forward with a strong assurance: farming inputs are secured and ready for distribution, ensuring that no dedicated farmer is left unsupported.
Through the Agricultural Rural Development Authority (ARDA) joint venture programme and the Presidential Inputs Scheme, the government is aiming to boost national wheat output and achieve the country’s 2025 targets.
Farmers who possess title deeds will be eligible to participate in the ARDA joint venture programme, while those without title deeds—mainly smallholder farmers—will receive support through the Presidential Inputs Scheme. This inclusive approach is designed to encourage participation across various farming categories.
“We are implementing the national winter wheat blueprint, which has received Cabinet approval,” stated Professor Obert Jiri, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development.
“Inputs are available within the country, and ARDA has been mandated to plant 60,000 hectares—half of the national target. From this season going forward, farmers intending to enter into joint ventures with ARDA must hold title deeds. The process of obtaining these deeds takes only three days. We are encouraging A1 and A2 farmers to apply and secure their documents in order to benefit.”
Meanwhile, ARDA Board Chairperson Mr. Ivan Craig urged farmers to align their winter cropping plans with available water resources, especially as summer crops begin to decline.
“Our teams, together with Agritex officers, are already on the ground identifying suitable farmers. The ARDA joint venture is now operational, and we are targeting 60,000 hectares, from which we hope to harvest approximately 300,000 metric tonnes of wheat,” Mr. Craig explained.
The government has set a national target of 120,000 hectares for wheat this winter season. In addition, 15,000 hectares will be dedicated to the production of barley and potatoes, as part of the broader food security strategy.
