The Agricultural and Rural Development Authority (ARDA) has delivered 120,054.49 metric tonnes of summer cereals to the Grain Marketing Board (GMB), strengthening Zimbabwe's grain reserves as Government intensifies preparations for a possible El Niño-induced drought in the 2026/27 agricultural season.
According to official GMB figures, the deliveries include 27,836.280 metric tonnes received through Agro Dura, while 24,898.897 metric tonnes comprise sorghum, highlighting increased production and marketing of the drought-tolerant crop.
ARDA expects grain deliveries to continue increasing as farmers complete harvesting, threshing and packaging, with sorghum volumes projected to rise further in the coming weeks.
The authority is also working closely with the GMB to provide logistical support and ensure the smooth transportation of grain from contracted farmers to collection depots.
The latest deliveries come as climate forecasts point to an increased likelihood of El Niño conditions developing later this year, raising concerns over below-average rainfall and the possibility of drought across much of Southern Africa.
In response, Government is reinforcing strategic grain reserves to ensure adequate food supplies and reduce the country's vulnerability to climate-induced food insecurity.
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The growing contribution of sorghum to national grain deliveries also reflects Zimbabwe's drive to promote drought-resistant crops as part of its climate adaptation strategy, alongside expanded irrigation and other climate-smart agricultural practices.
Zimbabwe was among the countries hardest hit by the 2023/24 El Niño drought, which significantly reduced agricultural output and left millions in need of food assistance.
With another El Niño event potentially on the horizon, authorities are accelerating grain procurement and storage efforts to improve national preparedness and safeguard food security.