HARARE — Zimbabwe is expect to import 700 000 tonnes of maize to avert food shortages after a poor 2014-15 agricultural season. According to the latest crop assessment report released by government, the country’s maize harvest dropped by 49% as compared to last year, leaving a huge gap that needs to be filled by imports.

The erratic rains experienced this year affected most provinces with only Mashonaland West and Central having surplus maize, the country’s staple food.

The national consumer figure is estimated to be 1,4 million tonnes. — Agencies