Obert Jiri brags Zimbabwe has so much wheat it must export it

Zimbabwe farmers smashed their wheat growing targets this winter season. The country expects to harvest 600,000 tonnes of wheat compared to 468,000 tonnes from last year. Professor Obert Jiri from the agriculture ministry announced the good news during a farm visit. Farmers planted over 122,142 hectares of wheat land when officials wanted 120,000 hectares. The extra production means Zimbabwe can start selling wheat to other countries.

The nation needs 360,000 tonnes of wheat each year for its people. This bumper harvest will create a surplus of 240,000 tonnes sitting in storage facilities. Mazowe district performed best with farmers planting 16,000 hectares of wheat crops. Most farmers planted their wheat during May which gave the best growing conditions. Officials expect each hectare to produce over 5.5 tonnes of wheat.

Zimbabwe became one of just two African countries that grows enough wheat for its people. The government helped farmers through input schemes and better irrigation systems. Countries like Mozambique and Rwanda already asked about buying Zimbabwe wheat. Aaron Nhepera planted 60 hectares and expects 7 tonnes per hectare this season. Government programs gave farmers the tools and knowledge they needed to succeed.