By Brandon Moss | AgriFocus Africa

After years of economic hardship and a devastating drought, Zimbabwe is charting a new course toward agricultural recovery. A $10.12 million grant from the African Development Bank (AfDB), announced in May 2025, is helping to reinvigorate the sector by boosting output and building resilience against climate shocks. For a country where agriculture remains central to livelihoods and national identity, this support marks a turning point.

Zimbabwe’s agricultural sector, once hailed as the “Breadbasket of Africa,” is regaining momentum. Fertile land and global demand for crops like tobacco, maize, and wheat remain strong, but past disruptions—including the controversial land reform program of 2000—left deep scars. The forced seizure of commercial farms led to a collapse in output, with tobacco export earnings plunging from $600 million in 2000 to just $175 million by 2009, according to the Tobacco Industry and Marketing Board.

The economic fallout was severe. Inflation soared, peaking above 500% in recent years, and basic goods became unaffordable. Banks struggled to lend, and farmers lacked access to capital and markets. Yet, signs of recovery are emerging. The International Monetary Fund estimates Zimbabwe’s GDP at $38.17 billion, with projections reaching $45.38 billion by 2030—driven in part by agricultural revitalization.
Nanganidzai Makoho, Capacity Building Director at the Zimbabwe Farmers Union, sees 2025 as a year of promise. “I have a positive feeling of significant economic growth,” she says, citing improved infrastructure and land tenure reforms that allow farmers to sell land and secure loans. These changes are fostering long-term investment in farm development and productivity.

Steve Hapelt, Director at the Agricultural Research Trust, acknowledges the challenges of the 2024 season, which was marred by long dry spells and repeated replanting.

“Nationwide yields were affected, but there is optimism for 2025,” he says. Improved weather forecasts and better preparedness are expected to support stronger harvests.

Government subsidies and modern infrastructure are also playing a role. The Technologies for African Agricultural Transformation (TAAT) initiative, launched in 2018, continues to educate rural communities on irrigation, soil management, and agribusiness. Makoho notes that women farmers, in particular, have gained valuable skills, contributing to increased productivity and resilience.

Despite progress, obstacles remain. Limited access to water and high-value markets still constrain growth. However, investments in roads, equipment, and climate-smart technologies are helping farmers adapt to extreme weather and improve output. Makoho emphasizes that smart agriculture can mitigate risks like droughts and floods, which have increasingly disrupted yields.

Encouragingly, cereal production—including maize, wheat, and corn—is projected to rise by 347% in 2025, according to Milling Middle East & Africa. This rebound could have far-reaching effects, as over 60% of Zimbabweans are employed directly or indirectly in agriculture. A thriving sector means improved livelihoods, food security, and national stability.

As Zimbabwe embraces innovation, educates its youth, and implements forward-looking reforms, the country is poised to reclaim its agricultural legacy. The seeds of recovery have been sown—and with continued investment and resilience, a flourishing future may be within reach.