By Wayne Matyukira
Africa-Press – Zimbabwe. WHEAT production has steadily emerged as a cornerstone of Zimbabwe’s agricultural economy, not only as a means to ensure food security but also as a key contributor to national economic growth.
As the second most important cereal after maize, wheat plays a vital role in the country’s efforts to close the gap between a growing population and food supply, while stimulating agro-industrial development.
The increasing demand for wheat-based products such as bread, buns and cakes has become a driving force behind investment in local production.
This shift has encouraged communal and commercial farmers to intensify wheat cultivation, with downstream industries like Bakers Inn, Proton, Lobels, National Foods and AgriSwiss Zimbabwe expanding their production to meet market needs.
Wheat farming has become a key agricultural activity in Zimbabwe, contributing not only to food security but also to economic development.
The government has made wheat self-sufficiency a strategic goal, targeting production levels of around 360 000 metric tonnes annually.
In 2023, Zimbabwe exceeded this target by producing 468 000 tonnes from 90 186 hectares, a 30% surplus. This milestone reflects the broader ambition of the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1) and Vision 2030, which aim to transform Zimbabwe to an upper-middle-income economy through sustainable agricultural growth and improved food sovereignty.
Despite the challenges posed by climate change, wheat remains a viable crop in Zimbabwe due to its adaptability to irrigation and temperate climate conditions. Wheat is best cultivated in winter, where day temperatures of between 15°C and 20°C and cooler nights support optimal yields. Although some wheat varieties can be grown in summer, higher disease and weed pressure, as well as elevated temperatures, tend to lower productivity. Therefore, winter irrigation remains the most effective method for wheat production in the country.
The cost of wheat production under high management conditions ranges from US$1 700 to US$2 100 per hectare, covering all variable costs. This high input cost requires farmers to aim for yields above 6 tonnes per hectare to make a profit. Historically, Zimbabwe achieved some of the highest average national wheat yields between 5 and 6 tonnes per hectare, which compares favourably with the global average of 2,5 to 3 tonnes per hectare. With proper inputs, technology and management, wheat farming in Zimbabwe has proven to be economically viable.
Return on investment in wheat farming is notably attractive. A farmer investing approximately US$2 000 per hectare can expect to generate revenues of up to US$4 000 (based on 8 tonnes per hectare at US$500 per tonne), resulting in a gross profit of about US$2 000 per hectare. On a larger scale, such as 200 hectares, this translates to substantial income. This profitability incentivises further reinvestment into the sector, allowing farmers to scale operations and contribute more significantly to the national economy.
Zimbabwe’s 2023 wheat production success was the result of collaborative efforts among farmers, financial institutions, research bodies, private sector players and supportive government policies. The release and adoption of high-yielding wheat varieties such as SAVE, in partnership with international organisations like ICARDA, have played a central role. Government-backed initiatives such as the Accelerated National Irrigation Rehabilitation and Development Programme and the Smallholder Irrigation Revitalisation Programme have further strengthened irrigation infrastructure, especially for small-scale farmers.
The government has also extended support through schemes like the National Enhanced Agricultural Productivity Scheme and the Presidential Wheat Input Programme. These efforts have not only improved productivity but also attracted new investors to wheat farming. Mechanisation support from international partners such as Belarus will further reduce production costs while enhancing efficiency.
Marketing mechanisms play a critical role in supporting wheat farmers. Under the Presidential Input Programme, the Grain Marketing Board provides a guaranteed market for wheat. Self-financed farmers, meanwhile, are encouraged to explore alternative markets, including private buyers and regional trade opportunities. This diversification helps to ensure wheat remains a competitive and commercially viable crop.
Wheat farming also delivers important macroeconomic benefits. Wheat contributes approximately 4-5% to Zimbabwe’s agricultural GDP. With continued investment and expansion, this figure could double or even triple shortly. As wheat production grows, its share in the national GDP is currently between 20% and 30% for agriculture and could increase significantly. Such growth will improve fiscal resilience and enhance the overall balance of payments.
In addition to economic benefits, wheat farming enhances food security and reduces poverty. With increased availability of wheat-based products, households across the country gain access to affordable nutrition. This contributes to achieving NDS1 targets, including reducing the national poverty rate to below 25%. Furthermore, the wheat sector creates direct and indirect employment opportunities, particularly in rural areas. From farming and irrigation to milling, baking, transportation and retail, the wheat value chain supports a wide network of livelihoods.
Another critical economic benefit of increased wheat production is the substitution of imports, thereby preserving foreign currency reserves. Zimbabwe’s annual wheat requirement of about 350 000 metric tonnes previously necessitated substantial imports. By producing this volume locally, the country not only saves on import costs but also stabilises domestic supply chains and strengthens food sovereignty. These savings can be redirected to other high-priority sectors, including healthcare and education. Moreover, a trade surplus in wheat and flour could eventually position Zimbabwe as a regional exporter, further enhancing its economic footprint in southern Africa.
The case of wheat in Zimbabwe serves as a model of how agricultural revival can anchor broader economic reforms.
It demonstrates the impact of coordinated planning, policy support and private sector participation in revitalising an industry that once struggled with inputs shortages, climatic constraints and weak infrastructure. As Zimbabwe pushes towards Vision 2030, sustained investment in wheat production and agriculture more broadly, offers a viable path to achieving sustainable development, employment generation and inclusive economic growth.
For Zimbabwe to truly maximise its wheat production potential, continuous innovation, access to finance, market diversification and climate resilience strategies will be essential. With these measures in place, wheat will not only feed the nation but also fuel its economic resurgence.
Source: NewsDay
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