Zimbabwe boosts power supply to support record winter wheat harvest

Zimbabwe has increased electricity allocation for winter wheat production to 155 megawatts this season, marking an 8 per cent rise compared to the previous year. The move forms part of a broader strategy to achieve a record harvest of 662,000 tonnes and reinforce long-term food self-sufficiency, reports The Herald, a partner of TV BRICS.

The government is targeting 125,000 hectares of winter wheat in 2026, building on last year’s output of 642,000 tonnes, which exceeded domestic demand estimated at between 350,000 and 450,000 tonnes. Authorities are increasingly integrating energy planning into agricultural policy to ensure stable production conditions.

Agriculture, Mechanisation and Water Resources Development Minister Anxious Masuka stated that the enhanced electricity supply reflects coordinated efforts between the agriculture and energy sectors. He noted that a dedicated working group has been established to align power generation with farming needs, ensuring consistent irrigation throughout the growing season.

Improved electricity availability is expected to support irrigation systems, widely regarded as essential for winter cropping. Recent gains in power generation – currently averaging between 1,700MW and 1,800MW.

According to the source, with planting already underway and large-scale producers contributing significantly to national targets, the country is positioning itself to sustain output levels and build strategic grain reserves.