A four-year, US$25 million food security initiative funded by the African Development Bank (AfDB) has strengthened agricultural production and improved the livelihoods of more than 188,000 farming households across Zimbabwe, while supporting the country’s long-term goal of building a more resilient and productive agricultural sector.

Implemented in partnership with the Government of Zimbabwe and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the Zimbabwe Emergency Food Production Project officially concluded on 30 June 2026 after exceeding many of its original targets.

Launched in 2022 in response to food security challenges triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Russia-Ukraine conflict and global supply chain disruptions, the programme provided farmers with quality seed, fertiliser, improved farming technologies and extension support. Climate-smart agricultural practices were introduced across more than 153,000 hectares, helping farmers increase productivity while adapting to changing weather conditions.

The project also played a significant role in boosting the production of drought-tolerant maize and sunflower seed, while contributing to average wheat yields of approximately five tonnes per hectare, supporting Zimbabwe’s drive towards greater food self-sufficiency.

A key feature of the programme was the Seed Revolving Fund, managed through AFC Land and Development Bank, which enabled more than 90,000 farmers to access agricultural financing. Women accounted for over 33,000 beneficiaries, and the facility achieved an impressive loan repayment rate exceeding 90%, demonstrating the viability of farmer-focused financing models.

Beyond improving access to inputs and finance, the initiative strengthened Zimbabwe’s agricultural systems through digital innovation. The project introduced the Identification, Delivery and Empowerment Application (IDEA), creating a national digital farmer registry that will enhance agricultural planning, extension services and future government support programmes.

Investments were also made in post-harvest infrastructure, including grain silos, threshing equipment, moisture meters and oil-processing machinery, helping reduce crop losses and improve value addition. Support provided to the Seed Services Institute and the Crop Breeding Institute has further strengthened local seed production, reducing dependence on imported seed.

An additional credit guarantee programme implemented through the Africa Fertilizer Financing Mechanism and Fertilizer and Seeds Group generated more than US$44 million in fertiliser sales—almost three times its initial target—and facilitated the distribution of over 80,000 tonnes of fertiliser through private sector partners.

Speaking at the project’s close, government officials described the initiative as a foundation for sustainable agricultural transformation rather than simply an emergency response. AfDB representatives noted that the programme surpassed its target of assisting 180,000 farmers, with women making up approximately 60% of all beneficiaries.

FAO officials added that the project has helped lay the groundwork for more resilient, inclusive and market-oriented agri-food systems, positioning Zimbabwe to continue strengthening food security, farmer resilience and agricultural productivity in the years ahead.

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