Zimbabwe anticipates producing 2.2 million tonnes of maize in the 2024/25 season, its fourth-highest harvest on record, driven by expanded planting and improved yields, Information Minister Jenfan Muswere said on Tuesday.
The forecast, announced during a post-Cabinet media briefing, follows a government crop assessment showing maize output is expected to rise despite erratic weather conditions.
The projected harvest is critical for a nation that has faced recurring food insecurity and relies heavily on the staple grain.
“The Report indicates that the area planted to maize increased from 1728897 hectares (ha) in the 2023/24 season to 1839373 hectares in the 2024/25 season.“The 6,4 percent increase is marginally above the target of 1 800 000 hectares. Based on this assessment, maize production in the 2024/25 season is estimated at 2293556 tonnes, the fourth highest ever production by the country,” said Dr Muswere.
The Second Round Crop, Livestock and Fisheries Assessment Report also highlighted significant growth in other key crops. Tobacco production rose 15%, cotton output jumped 52%, and sunflower surged 303% compared to the previous season.
Livestock data showed Zimbabwe’s national cattle herd grew 0.4% to 5.7 million, with communal farmers owning 64% of the total. Beef production reached 94,623 tonnes in 2024, up from 90,000 tonnes in 2023, while milk output climbed 10% to 115 million litres, led by Mashonaland East, Manicaland, and Midlands provinces.
Fish production stood at 31,296 tonnes, and crocodile skin sales rose 34%, underscoring diversification efforts in the agriculture sector.
Zimbabwe, which has struggled with droughts, has prioritized expanding irrigation and input subsidies to boost yields. The maize forecast, if realized, would reduce reliance on imports and stabilize prices in a nation where over 60% of the population depends on farming.
