By Edward Makuzva
Zimbabwe’s agricultural sector faces growing challenges due to erratic rainfall patterns and the increasing impacts of climate change.
As traditional farming methods struggle to keep pace with these shifts, there is need for a more strategic approach to crop selection has never been more urgent.
By aligning the types of crops grown with the specific rainfall patterns of each region, farmers can boost resilience, improve yields, and help secure the nation’s food supply.
This explores how embracing climate-smart agriculture and region-appropriate crops can pave the way for sustainable farming in Zimbabwe.
In the heart of Muzarabani, Utete ward 19, Mashonaland Central Province, where unpredictable rains have long threatened harvests, one farmer is turning back to the wisdom of the past to secure the future. Meet Ephraim Mugoniwa , a local farmer who made the bold decision to switch from maize to traditional drought-resistant crops—most notably sorghum.
Driven by a desire to adapt to climate change and improve food security for his family, Mugoniwa began cultivating sorghum two seasons ago. With careful land preparation, proper timing, and support from agricultural extension officers, his fields flourished even in a season marked by low rainfall.
His efforts paid off when he won the Sorghum Field Day award, an event held to recognize outstanding farmers embracing climate-smart practices.Mugoniwa’s success story is now inspiring others in the community to rethink their crop choices, showing that traditional crops like sorghum are not just part of the past—they are the future of sustainable farming in Zimbabwe.
Mugoniwa has praised Farmbiz for their timely supply of chemicals and quality seed, which significantly boosted his crop yield. His hard work and successful harvest have earned him recognition with a field day in his ward—a true testament to the power of effective farming partnerships and dedication to agricultural excellence.
“I expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Agricultural Extension Workers, Farmbiz, and the Ministry of Agriculture for their invaluable mentorship throughout his journey to becoming an excellent farmer. He credited their guidance and support as key to his success in the agricultural sector. He also extended his appreciation to President Emmerson Mnangagwa for his visionary leadership and commitment to increasing agricultural productivity across the country, which continues to empower farmers and strengthen food security in Zimbabwe”, Mugoniwa explained.
Mugoniwa exemplifies resilience and progressive thinking, having made the bold decision to transition from maize farming to traditional grains—a strategic move that ensures improved yields in challenging climatic conditions while enhancing food security and nutritional diversity.
His transition serves as a powerful reminder to fellow farmers that adopting traditional grains is not a regression, but a progressive step toward sustainable agriculture, greater climate resilience, and economic empowerment. His journey is an inspiration for others to embrace change, innovate, and grow.
Mugoniwa is expected to harvest between 2.5 to 3 tonnes of sorghum per hectare, with the market price at US $500 per tonne. This remarkable yield has significantly increased his income, demonstrating how traditional grains have not only improved his livelihood but also positively impacted his family’s well-being in the ward. His journey stands as a testament to the economic benefits of embracing climate-smart, sustainable agriculture.
Guest of Honour, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water, and Rural Development, Professor Obert Jiri, highlighted that the success of traditional grains in this area is largely due to the alluvial nature of the soils, which respond well without applying fertilizers because their naturally rich and enhance productivity.
Regarding contracts, “I believe there should be a minimum input package that contractors are required to provide to farmers—this should include seed, chemicals, and fertilizers. In regions where soils are less fertile, achieving good yields without the use of fertilizers will be challenging, making this package essential for productivity” , Prof Jiri added.
Professor Jiri emphasized that the importance of traditional grains goes beyond just being a seed for planting; these grains also serve as a vital food source for families. Not only do they contribute to sustainable farming practices, but they also play a key role in ensuring food security within households. The harvest from these grains provides nutritious meals that directly support the well-being of families, strengthening both their economic and health resilience.
” We are well aware that this area experiences high temperatures, low rainfall, yet boasts rich soils. It is crucial that we leverage these unique conditions to our advantage. The heat in this region actually promotes rapid growth, encouraging crops to mature quickly.
“Additionally, the fertile soils are highly beneficial, providing essential nutrients that support healthy plant development. The low rainfall, rather than being a disadvantage, actually creates an ideal environment for traditional grains, which are well-suited to withstand dry conditions. By embracing these local conditions, we can cultivate these resilient crops and enhance both yield and sustainability”, Prof Jiri explained.
Farmbiz Director, Misheck Maravanyika, urged farmers to focus on ploughing traditional crops, highlighting that this shift can significantly enhance productivity in the area.
“By embracing crops that are well-adapted to the local environment, farmers can better utilize the available resources, such as soil fertility and climate conditions. Traditional crops, often more resilient to drought and pests, offer a sustainable solution for boosting yields while reducing dependency on external inputs”, said Maravanyika.
Maravanyika emphasized that cultivating these crops not only improves food security within the community but also increases income opportunities for farmers, contributing to the overall economic development of the area. Additionally, focusing on traditional crops can help preserve local agricultural heritage and ensure long-term agricultural sustainability.
Local farmers in Utete Ward have praised traditional grains for their resilience in the face of climate change, which has increasingly affected productivity in the area.
With unpredictable weather patterns, including irregular rainfall and rising temperatures, traditional grains such as sorghum, millet, and finger millet have proven to be more adaptable and tolerant of drought conditions compared to other crops. Farmers in the ward recognize that these crops are not only more climate-resilient but also offer a reliable source of food and income, even in challenging seasons.
By embracing traditional grains, local farmers can mitigate the risks posed by climate change, ensuring a more stable harvest. These grains require fewer inputs and are better suited to the region’s soil and climatic conditions. Moreover, the shift to these crops has helped strengthen food security in the community, providing families with nutritious, home-grown alternatives that reduce reliance on external food supplies. Local farmers are increasingly realizing the long-term benefits of cultivating traditional grains, which not only safeguard their livelihoods but also contribute to environmental sustainability and community resilience.