Zimbabwe is embarking on its first comprehensive agricultural census since 1980, marking a pivotal moment for a sector long plagued by fragmented data and policy blind spots. The National Agricultural and Livestock Census (NALC), launched on September 20th, will survey over 1.5 million farming households across all provinces.

Funded by the FAO and the African Development Bank, the census will collect data on crop types, livestock numbers, land tenure, irrigation coverage, and farmer demographics. Officials say the findings will inform subsidy programs, climate adaptation strategies, and export planning.

“This is not just a headcount—it’s a blueprint for transformation,” said Agriculture Minister Dr. Anxious Masuka. The census will also include digital mapping and satellite verification to ensure accuracy.

Agricultural unions have praised the initiative, noting that decades of guesswork have hindered investment and productivity. Preliminary results are expected by mid-2026, with policy reforms to follow shortly thereafter.
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