Zimbabwe 2024 wheat production

Zimbabwe's wheat production in 2024 was marked by both challenges and strategic developments. The nation achieved a yield of 555,824 metric tonnes, reaching 92% of its 600,000-tonne target by cultivating approximately 119,594 hectares.

In 2023, Zimbabwe produced 468,000 metric tonnes of wheat from 90,186 hectares planted, exceeding its self-sufficiency goal by 30%. The average yield ranged from 5.1 to 5.3 tonnes per hectare. This marked a significant increase compared to the previous year’s yield of 375,000 tonnes from 91,000 hectares.

Despite this progress, the nation continues to rely on wheat imports. Why does Zimbabwe import wheat despite producing above its self-sufficiency target of 360,000 tonnes This consumption figure reflects the country’s significant reliance on wheat as a staple food, primarily for bread production, which is consumed by over 10 million people according to reports.

Agricultural advancements have meant the recent past yields are year-on-year record wheat harvests. Domestic demand has been exceeded and reliance on imports has been reduced.

Last year’s target of 600,000 tonnes reflected a strategic push by the Zimbabwean public sector,  towards self-sufficiency and food security. The Government of Zimbabwe had announced that this ambitious goal aimed to bolster local production amidst challenges like climate change, thereby reducing reliance on imports and enhancing resilience in the agricultural sector. The government said it was also exploring summer wheat cultivation to further increase yields and stabilise food supplies.

Wheat quality

However, one significant hurdle in Zimbabwe's wheat production is the inherent quality limitation of locally grown wheat. Domestically produced wheat consistently demonstrates low gluten and protein content, rendering it unsuitable for bread-making without sophisticated blending techniques. To address this, Zimbabwe relies on importing approximately 30% of its hard wheat requirements, primarily from countries with more favourable agricultural conditions like Russia. This import strategy allows for creating flour with the necessary characteristics for high-quality bread and baked goods.

Climate and water resource management emerge as critical factors influencing wheat production. Zimbabwe's agricultural cycle is dramatically impacted by rainfall patterns, with poor summer rainy seasons creating substantial challenges for winter wheat irrigation. Reduced soil moisture and diminished water reservoir levels compromise the consistent water supply essential for optimal crop growth. These environmental constraints not only affect immediate crop yields but also have long-term implications for agricultural planning and food security.

Power supply for irrigation

Power supply for irrigation also remains a concern for producers and a priority for our government to address. Prior to the onset of last year’s season, the Government of Zimbabwe allocated additional megawatts specifically for this purpose. Initially, 100 megawatts were ring-fenced for winter wheat. It was later increased to 150 megawatts to meet rising demand.

The government said it would also promote solar energy systems for farmers to enhance self-sufficiency and reduce reliance on the national grid. Additionally, water management measures have been implemented, including reduced tariffs and strategic planning to ensure sufficient irrigation supplies.

VAT deferment

However, when the budget was announced in November 2023, it was announced that VAT deferment on capital equipment extended to the energy sector was to be effective from January 2025. It had not been scrapped as many farmers were hoping: VAT still applies but it is not payable immediately on importation of solar equipment; it is now 25% deductible over four years.

According to ZIMRA, deferment of VAT is an officially sanctioned temporary postponement of paying VAT on importation of specified goods of a capital nature imported by companies in the manufacturing, agriculture, mining, aviation transport and health sectors. The goods should have been imported for own use by the importer. It is granted on application to the Commissioner.

Presidential Inputs Schemes

The government has publicly responded to these multiple production challenges through multifaceted agricultural strategies. The Presidential Input Schemes represent a significant intervention, with 91% of targeted plots prepared and 86% of targeted households participating. These initiatives aim to enhance agricultural productivity by providing resources and support to farmers. The strategic grain reserves currently stand at 244,296 metric tonnes, complemented by substantial private sector imports of 974,658 metric tonnes of wheat, maize, and wheat flour.

Food security

Zimbabwe's agricultural outlook demonstrates a commitment to transforming its agricultural sector. The 2024/2025 Summer Season Plan ambitiously targets a dramatic increase in overall crop production, aiming to raise production from 915,000 metric tonnes to over 4 million metric tonnes—a 347% increase. For cereals specifically, the target is 3.3 million metric tonnes, indicating a comprehensive approach to addressing food security challenges.

The wheat sector's performance is particularly noteworthy. The government attributed this success to strategic planning and presidential leadership, utilising over 291 configured combine harvesters.

Moreover, Zimbabwe has implemented additional measures to ensure agricultural input integrity. These include blacklisting officials involved in input abuse, banning problematic ward committees, and developing improved standard operating procedures with clear role definitions. Such governance mechanisms aim to enhance the efficiency and transparency of agricultural support programmes.

Production targets

The nation's agricultural strategy extends beyond wheat, encompassing diverse crop types. The National Enhanced Agricultural Productivity Scheme plans to establish 52,500 hectares of maize, soya beans, traditional grains, and sunflower, targeting a production of 256,000 metric tonnes. Private sector involvement is also significant, with plans to fund the establishment of 95,046 hectares of various crops.

Zimbabwe's 2024 wheat production narrative is not merely a statistical account but a complex story of strategic planning, and adaptive agricultural management. By implementing robust support mechanisms, and navigating challenging environmental conditions, Zimbabwe continues to evolve its agricultural sector, demonstrating a commitment to enhancing food security and economic sustainability.