New System Aims to Boost Food Security and Unlock Farmer Finance Through a Market-Based Approach

HARARE, Zimbabwe – Zimbabwe’s agricultural sector took a monumental step towards modernization Wednesday, as the Zimbabwe Mercantile Exchange (ZMX) and the Grain Millers Association of Zimbabwe (GMAZ) unveiled a landmark partnership set to fundamentally reshape how grain is traded, financed, and stored in the country.

Watermelons are a cornerstone of summer, a profitable crop that can deliver impressive returns when managed with precision. But achieving those heavy, sweet, high-quality melons that the market demands requires more than just water and sunshine. It demands a strategic plan that integrates smart agronomy with sound business principles.

As a farmer, you know your inputs: seed, fertilizer, water, and labour. You calculate these costs carefully. But what if one of the most powerful factors determining your yield isn't something you're buying, but something you're managing?

by Rawlings Kofi As farmers, we’ve all been there: celebrating a record-breaking harvest, a bumper crop, or a new high in milk output. The sheer volume of what we produce often feels like the ultimate benchmark of a successful season. But is it? In a world of increasing input costs, volatile markets, and pressing environmental concerns, simply producing more doesn't automatically translate to more profit or greater sustainability. This common misconception can actually mask inefficiencies that erode your bottom line and long-term viability. This article aims to clarify a critical distinction that can redefine your approach to farm management: the difference between "production" and "productivity."

By Rawlings Kofi | Zimbabwe's agricultural sector is converging this week at the Harare Exhibition Park for the 2nd Agriculture Research and Extension Symposium, held under the theme "Transformative Agricultural Technologies Accelerating the Attainment of Vision 2030." The crucial event kicked off today with the official opening by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, Prof. Dr. Obert Jiri, who delivered a compelling message on the indispensable role of innovation.

Farming today demands more than just skill with soil and livestock. To thrive in the modern agricultural landscape, farmers need to run their operations as efficient, profitable, and sustainable farm businesses. This requires a different set of tools – the farm business tools that support planning, finances, marketing, and management off the field.

Harare, Zimbabwe – 15 May 2025 – Zimbabwe's agricultural landscape is preparing for a significant event: the 2nd Agriculture Research and Extension Symposium, scheduled to take place from May 28th to 30th, 2025, at the Zimbabwe Agriculture Society conference halls in Harare. This crucial gathering is a collaborative initiative by the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, specifically its Agricultural Research, Innovation and Specialist Services (ARISS) directorate, alongside the Agricultural Research Council (ARC) and the Zimbabwe Agricultural Society (ZAS).

By Rawlings Kofi

The air at the SeedCo Vegetables demonstration fields was buzzing on May 8, 2025. It wasn't just another sunny day; it was a vibrant gathering of farmers, agronomists, and industry partners, all united by the shared goal of cultivating success – even in challenging times. The occasion? The much-anticipated SeedCo Vegetable Field Day, an event designed to take learning out of the classroom and into the soil.

by Rawlings Kofi

The soil beneath your feet, the seeds you sow, the livestock you rear – this isn't just land or produce; it's your lifeblood. For every farmer, regardless of location or scale, there's one golden rule that underpins success and sustainability: Never joke with your source of income.

Zimbabwe's agricultural sector, the backbone of our economy and livelihoods, faces an increasing barrage of threats. Climate change is altering ecosystems, creating favourable conditions for new pests and diseases, while burgeoning global trade routes inadvertently offer additional pathways for their introduction. The recent emergence of devastating invaders like the Fall Armyworm (FAW) and the tomato leaf miner (Tuta absoluta) serves as a stark reminder of our vulnerability. In this challenging landscape, the Plant Quarantine Services Institute (PQSI) stands as a crucial line of defence.

Broccoli belongs to a large group of plants known as Cole Crops, a term derived from the Latin word caulis, meaning "stem" or "stalk." While Cole crops are technically biennials, they are typically grown as annuals. In recent years, broccoli has gained significant popularity, particularly among health-conscious middle-class consumers. Major retailers now stock large quantities of broccoli due to increasing demand, especially from individuals managing chronic and non-chronic ailments such as ulcers, bowel disorders, and other health conditions.

Butternut (Cucurbita moschata) is a nutritious and versatile member of the cucurbit family, widely cultivated for its sweet, flavorful fruit. Rich in vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants, butternut is a valuable addition to diets and is commonly used in soups, stews, and rice dishes. Due to its long shelf life, it also serves as an excellent cash crop for smallholder and commercial farmers alike.

The Zimbabwe-China Avocado and Macadamia Buyers’ Engagement, a landmark trade event organized by ZimTrade, officially commenced today in Chipinge, marking a significant step in strengthening economic collaboration between the two nations. Running from April 8 to 10, 2025, the event brings together Zimbabwean producers and Chinese buyers to explore new export opportunities and solidify trade relations in the agricultural sector.

Organic matter is a fundamental component of healthy soil, consisting of decomposed plant and animal residues, soil microorganisms, and humus. It plays a critical role in maintaining soil fertility, structure, and biological activity. For farmers, understanding and managing organic matter can significantly improve crop productivity, enhance soil resilience, and reduce dependency on synthetic inputs. This article explores the importance of organic matter, its impact on crop production, and best practices for maintaining optimal soil organic content.

by Rawlings Kofi | Harare, April 3, 2025 – The Grain Marketing Board (GMB) has officially released the approved producer prices for the 2024/25 summer cropping season, along with the incentive planning price for winter wheat in 2025.

by Rawlings Kofi | Farming is not for the faint of heart. It’s unpredictable—one season, you’re celebrating a bumper harvest, and the next, you’re scrambling to recover from drought, pests, or market fluctuations. The reality is that farming alone often doesn’t provide a steady, year-round income. So, how do you ensure that your farm remains financially strong, no matter the season? The answer lies in diversification.

by Rawlings Kofi | Foliar fertilizers are liquid nutrient solutions applied directly to plant leaves, allowing plants to absorb essential nutrients through their foliage. Unlike traditional soil fertilizers, which deliver nutrients through the root system, foliar fertilizers provide a more immediate nutrient boost, addressing deficiencies quickly and efficiently. They are particularly useful in situations where soil conditions limit nutrient availability, such as compacted soils, pH imbalances, or drought conditions.

By Rawlings Kofi - Farming is more than just a business; for many, it is a way of life, a passion, and a legacy passed down through generations. However, some farmers continue investing time and resources into projects that are no longer profitable, holding onto them despite mounting losses. Why does this happen, and how can farmers break free from unprofitable ventures while ensuring long-term success?

Paprika is a high-value spice crop that presents a lucrative opportunity for farmers. With the right agronomic practices, farmers can achieve impressive yields while tapping into the growing global demand for high-quality dried paprika. This guide provides essential insights into paprika production, from land preparation to harvesting, ensuring maximum productivity and profitability.

Potatoes are a high-value crop, and achieving optimal yields requires careful planning and management. Here’s a concise guide to potato production for a 1-hectare plot: