1.0 2023 SUMMER PLAN: ADDITIONAL MEASURES TO CLIMATE- PROOF PRODUCTION TO INCREASE PRODUCTIVITY

Cabinet considered the 2023 Summer Plan additional measures to climate-proof production to increase productivity as presented by the Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, Honourable Dr. A.J. Masuka.

The nation will recall that Cabinet approved the 2023/24 Summer Cropping Plan and State of Preparedness on the 18th of May 2023. The Plan seeks to achieve national food, feed, and edible oils self-sufficiency. The national target hectrage for strategic crops is 3 040 000 ha with an expected yield of 3 782 658 metric tonnes (MT).

The nation is informed that Zimbabwe has adequate grains in stock for the next two seasons. However, the sensitivity analysis for the 2023/2024 season based on previous years analysis indicates reduced crop production. Accordingly Cabinet has put in place robust measures encompassing irrigation and agricultural climate-proofing in order to maintain increased production. In line with Government priorities in the agricultural sector, the National Enhanced Agriculture Productivity Scheme will be expanded, with more banks contracting increased hectarages.