Posts by Staff Writer
Thoughts of a Zimbabwean farmer
By Tatendaishe C. Ukama (Smallholder integrated farmers and founder of Lemonhead Aggregation Centre) As I step onto the land that has been my family’s legacy for generations, I am filled with a sense of purpose and passion. Farming is not just a profession for me; it is a way of life. The smell of fresh…
Read MoreIndigenous breeds take centre stage at third ADMA sale
The final day of the 2026 ADMA Agrishow belonged to Zimbabwe’s indigenous livestock breeds, as breeders, buyers and enthusiasts gathered for the 3rd Indigenous Breeds Sale, showcasing the country’s celebrated Sanga cattle – the Mashona, Nkone and Tuli. This year’s sale marked an important milestone with the inclusion of small stock (sheep) for the first…
Read MoreZimbabwe issues early El Niño warning ahead of 2026/27 rainy season
HARARE – Zimbabwe’s weather authorities have issued an early preliminary warning over a possible El Niño event during the 2026/27 rainy season, urging the public and key sectors to begin precautionary planning while cautioning against panic-driven decisions. The Zimbabwe Meteorological Services Department (MSD) announced on 29 April 2026 that global climate forecasting centres are indicating…
Read MoreWhat is ADMA?
The Agricultural Dealers and Manufacturers Association (ADMA) is a registered industry body in Zimbabwe representing companies involved in agricultural machinery, equipment, mechanisation, and inputs such as fertilisers, chemicals, and irrigation systems. Its core role is to promote ethical trading practices in the agri-supply sector, uphold service and quality standards, and support farmers’ access to reliable,…
Read MoreIndigenous genetics return to the ring as ADMA Livestock Sale expands to include sheep
The third annual livestock sale at the Agricultural Dealers and Manufacturers Association Agrishow is set to take place on 6 June 2026, with proceedings beginning at 10am. After two successful sales showcasing Zimbabwe’s indigenous cattle breeds, this year’s event will see the format expanded to include sheep – the adapted Dorper and the indigenous Sabi…
Read MoreThe rescue dogs helping farmers fight theft and poaching
What began as an animal rescue challenge has evolved into an innovative working dog programme that is helping protect farms, livestock and wildlife across Zimbabwe. The Friend Animal Foundation (FAF) established its Patrol Dog Programme two years ago in response to growing pressure on its rescue facilities. With increasing numbers of abandoned and surrendered dogs…
Read MoreZimbabwe’s 2025/26 maize crop: strong planting, mixed season, harvest still provisional
Zimbabwe’s 2025/26 summer cropping season opened with a strong national planting effort, but the final maize harvest remains provisional as reaping continues across the country. Official and industry reports indicate that approximately 1,885,833 hectares of maize were planted, exceeding the national target of 1.8 million hectares and reaching about 105% of planned area (millingmea.com). This…
Read MoreTobacco growers warn of tough season as prices lag despite strong sales
Zimbabwe’s 2026 tobacco marketing season is unfolding with sharply contrasting signals; record early volumes on the one hand, and mounting concern from growers on the other, as prices come under pressure in what industry leaders are increasingly describing as an oversupplied market. Latest figures from the Tobacco Industry and Marketing Board show that by mid-April,…
Read MoreHaritatos takes the helm of newly split Lands Ministry
His Excellency President Emmerson Mnangagwa has sworn in Honourable Vangelis Peter Haritatos as Zimbabwe’s new Minister of Lands and Rural Development, following the separation of the former Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development into two standalone portfolios. The appointment, which became effective on 10 April, sees Haritatos take charge of the newly…
Read MoreFarmed bird (ostrich, chicken & turkey) behaviour
by Ross G. Cooper, D.Phil. Ostriches, chickens and turkeys, are principally terrestrial, although they are certainly capable of great leaps particularly during avoidance and defensive stances. It is essential that the farmer establishes the correct incubator temperature and relative humidity parameters if the development of the embryo, including its limbs and wings, are to proceed…
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