Midlands farmers are changing their crop plans as a possible El Niño drought puts Zimbabwe's next harvest at risk. With rain in doubt, growers are turning to hardier plants and new ways to save water ahead of the 2026/27 summer season.
Chirape, in Gokwe North, hosted the launch of the local drive. Fields are being set up for maize, cotton, and small grains under Pfumvudza/Intwasa, paired with farming methods that help crops cope with dry spells.
Across Zimbabwe, officials hope to reach three million growers, with 16 million Pfumvudza beds spread over one million hectares. But the latest figures from the Agricultural and Rural Development Authority (ARDA) show that more than 3.7 million people have prepared 9.4 million beds.
On the ground, farmers say the lessons are paying off. Mulch helps keep soil moist, while early land prep gives crops a better start. Some feel ready for the dry spell, though access to seeds, fertilizer, and other supplies remains a big deal.
ARDA's Midlands chief, Busiso Olga Mavankeni, wants growers in Natural Regions Three, Four, and Five to plant more sorghum, millet, and sunflower. These crops can handle less rain. One farmer has 14 beds ready, with cotton and local grains among the crops.
Meanwhile, a presidential aid scheme is set to supply lime, pesticides, and fertilizer. Mavankeni also backs the use of machines to ease field work and urges growers to plant a mix of crops suited to their soil and climate.
Beyond the farms, Zimbabwe has a six-part national plan to deal with dry weather. It covers food stocks, animal care, farm loans, imports, and systems that warn of risks early. Saving water is another key part of the effort.
Edgar Seenza, the Midlands provincial permanent secretary, says chiefs and village heads are helping pass on tips to rural homes. The focus is on using each bit of rain well, keeping animals safe, and making sure families have food.
Gokwe-Nembudziya lawmaker Flora Buka has also backed the state farm aid scheme. She says villages are getting advice on crops that suit local weather, along with ways to make sure livestock can get water.
Still, rain will play a big role in how well the crops do. For Midlands growers, the goal is clear. Get fields ready, pick plants that can cope with less water, and limit losses if El Niño brings a harsh season.
Chirape, in Gokwe North, hosted the launch of the local drive. Fields are being set up for maize, cotton, and small grains under Pfumvudza/Intwasa, paired with farming methods that help crops cope with dry spells.
Across Zimbabwe, officials hope to reach three million growers, with 16 million Pfumvudza beds spread over one million hectares. But the latest figures from the Agricultural and Rural Development Authority (ARDA) show that more than 3.7 million people have prepared 9.4 million beds.
On the ground, farmers say the lessons are paying off. Mulch helps keep soil moist, while early land prep gives crops a better start. Some feel ready for the dry spell, though access to seeds, fertilizer, and other supplies remains a big deal.
ARDA's Midlands chief, Busiso Olga Mavankeni, wants growers in Natural Regions Three, Four, and Five to plant more sorghum, millet, and sunflower. These crops can handle less rain. One farmer has 14 beds ready, with cotton and local grains among the crops.
Meanwhile, a presidential aid scheme is set to supply lime, pesticides, and fertilizer. Mavankeni also backs the use of machines to ease field work and urges growers to plant a mix of crops suited to their soil and climate.
Beyond the farms, Zimbabwe has a six-part national plan to deal with dry weather. It covers food stocks, animal care, farm loans, imports, and systems that warn of risks early. Saving water is another key part of the effort.
Edgar Seenza, the Midlands provincial permanent secretary, says chiefs and village heads are helping pass on tips to rural homes. The focus is on using each bit of rain well, keeping animals safe, and making sure families have food.
Gokwe-Nembudziya lawmaker Flora Buka has also backed the state farm aid scheme. She says villages are getting advice on crops that suit local weather, along with ways to make sure livestock can get water.
Still, rain will play a big role in how well the crops do. For Midlands growers, the goal is clear. Get fields ready, pick plants that can cope with less water, and limit losses if El Niño brings a harsh season.
