Zimbabwe strengthens push for rice self-sufficiency to curb import dependence

ZIMBABWE – Zimbabwe has taken strategic steps this season to advance local rice production in an effort to reduce its dependence on imports.

In an interview with The Herald, Professor Obert Jiri, permanent secretary for Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water, and Rural Development, said the country was relying on imports for 98 per cent of its rice consumption.

“Given this heavy dependence, we have incorporated rice production into our 2024/25 summer plan since it has become imperative to develop a comprehensive rice production system,” said Prof Jiri.

According to him, these imports cost the nation approximately US$100 million per year, a figure that continues to rise with increased consumption.

The government’s goal is to achieve self-sufficiency by boosting local rice output and stabilizing domestic food supplies, reducing the import burden.

According to prof Jiri, this plan will focus on supporting farmers with improved agricultural practices and technologies, with particular attention to varieties such as NERICA (New Rice for Africa) and K-Rice.

These initiatives are backed by Japanese agricultural expertise and have been highlighted by First Lady Dr. Auxillia Mnangagwa, aiming to address regional yield improvements and sustainability.

However, Zimbabwe’s current rice production only stands at 2,000 tonnes, with demand reaching 120,000 tonnes per year and projected to grow significantly by 2030.

The government anticipates that by enhancing local seed varieties and providing agronomic support, Zimbabwe can close this gap and reduce its reliance on imports.

Beyond rice, Zimbabwe has also introduced policies to support food security against adverse weather patterns, particularly with the effects of the El Niño-induced drought.

Recent measures include the removal of import duties on essential grains, such as rice, which has already benefited consumers by enabling easier access to affordable food staples.

The government has also authorized the controlled importation of genetically modified maize for livestock feed and temporarily allowed households to import maize, rice, and potato seeds duty-free.

Dr. Tafadzwa Musarara, chairperson of the Grain Millers Association of Zimbabwe, has highlighted that rice consumption in Zimbabwe has surged by over 200% since 2015.

As a result, the Grain Mobilization and Strategic Grain Reserve sub-committee aims to capitalize on this demand by encouraging commercial rice production, a move anticipated to support Zimbabwe’s shift toward greater food independence while also tapping into the expanding local market.

This blend of new policies and local initiatives is expected to improve food security by enhancing local production capacities and reducing the nation’s vulnerability to volatile global markets.

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