From Farm to ZiG: How 2026 budget can secure food, stabilize currency

By Newton Mambande

HARARE – AS Zimbabwe prepares for the 2026 budget, it is imperative that policymakers prioritize agricultural economic growth and development to ensure food security for all citizens. The agricultural sector is the backbone of our economy, providing livelihoods for millions of people. Therefore, the budget must be tailored to support this critical sector.

Investing in Agriculture Insurance

To mitigate risks associated with drought, famine, pandemics, epidemics, and floods, insurance companies must be encouraged to invest in agriculture insurance business. This will provide farmers with a safety net, enabling them to manage risks and recover from unforeseen events.

Promoting Contract Farming

Contract farming can revolutionize Zimbabwe’s agricultural sector by providing farmers with access to markets, technology, and finance. The government can promote public-private partnership (PPP) agreements between farmers, processors, and agribusinesses to increase efficiency and productivity.

Subsidizing Key Commodities

To reduce dependence on imports and promote self-sufficiency, the government must subsidize the production of key commodities, including:

– Grains and cereals (maize and wheat)

– Oilseeds (sunflower, groundnuts, and soya beans)

– Sugar beans and Michigan beans

– Coffee and macadamia

– Horticulture and dairy production

Value Addition and Beneficiation

Financing value addition and beneficiation processes can promote industrialization and reduce imports. By adding value to our raw materials, we can create employment opportunities, increase exports, and stimulate economic growth.

Strengthening the ZiG Currency

A strong agricultural sector can also contribute to the stability of the ZiG currency. By increasing local production of raw materials, we can reduce pressure on USD and foreign currency reserves. With 90% of raw material commodity supplies locally available, Zimbabwe can minimize imports and conserve foreign currency, ultimately stabilizing the ZiG currency.

International Best Practices

The government must adopt standards employed or recommended by regional and international organizations, such as SADC, European Union, and United States, in implementing budgets for agriculture and food security-related industries.

Conclusion

The 2026 budget presents an opportunity for Zimbabwe to prioritize agricultural economic growth and development, ensuring food security for all citizens. By investing in agriculture insurance, promoting contract farming, subsidizing key commodities, financing value addition and beneficiation, and adopting international best practices, we can transform our agricultural sector and stimulate economic growth. A strong agricultural sector will also contribute to the stability of the ZiG currency, reducing pressure on USD and foreign currency reserves. Let us hope the government will prioritize these critical areas and create a conducive environment for agricultural development.

About the Author:
Newton Mambande is an entrepreneur and researcher. He has published scientific research in academic journals. He is reachable via email at newtonmunod@gmail.com or by WhatsApp/Call at +263773411103.