MSD predicts slow start to rains
ZIMBABWE must prepare for a delayed and erratic start to the 20252026 rainfall season, with significant improvements expected from December onwards, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Minister Dr Jenfan Muswere said yesterday.
Speaking after yesterday’s Cabinet meeting in Harare, Dr Muswere said Cabinet noted the predicted seasonal climate indicators influencing Zimbabwe’s forthcoming rainfall patterns as informed by the Meteorological Services Department in the Ministry of Environment, Climate and Wildlife.
“The 2025-2026 rainfall season will be largely similar to the 20242025 season,” said Dr Muswere. “A delayed, erratic start with initial dry conditions in October and November is expected, particularly in northern provinces, while the southern and western regions may receive normal to above-normal rains early on.
“However, prospects for improvement will be realised nationally from December onwards, though the northern areas may dry out again later in the season.”
This variability will require proactive risk management, including delayed planting by dryland farmers, robust water conservation measures, and preparedness for both dry spells and extreme weather events such as floods.
The Meteorological Services Department will continue to monitor seasonal climate indicators that influence Zimbabwe’s rainfall as they evolve.
Government said the seasonal rainfall predictions will be updated monthly, along with daily weather forecasts and 10-day weather bulletins.
In related news, Dr Muswere reported that Cabinet received the 2024-2025 summer crops marketing and the 2025 winter crops production plan.
The current grain stock at the Grain Marketing Board (GMB) is 135 896 tonnes, with 70 666 tonnes being wheat, while the balance comprises maize, traditional grains and genetically modified maize imports.
As of September 2 this year, the GMB had recorded 8,3 percent of the intake compared to 12,7 percent during the same period last year. Total marketed grain stands at 840,562 tonnes.
Cabinet also highlighted that 354,8 million kg of tobacco have been sold so far, compared to 231,8 million kg sold over the same period last year.
Regarding cotton, 28 205 407kg have been sold, more than double the 13 551 021 kilogrammes recorded in the same period last year. For the wheat crop soon to be harvested, 122 566 hectares were planted against a target of 120 000 hectares. There is sufficient manpower, vehicles, sprayers, and chemicals to respond to quelea bird outbreaks, and localised district teams of first responders have been activated. Herald
