Agricultural sector

Agriculture is estimated to have declined by 12.1% in 2005. It is, however, anticipated to increase by 9% in 2006 .

Selected Crop Output

Source: CSO and RBZ

The estimated decline in agriculture in the 2004/2005 season was a result of the following factors: Adverse impact of the 2004/05 drought on agricultural production; Late distribution of seed, resulting in some farmers missing the early rain; The amount of compound fertilisers supplied was inadequate and was distributed late; 

Maize

Maize output is expected to grow by 73.3%, from 750 000 tonnes to 1.3 million tonnes in 2006. The increase in maize output is hinged on the good rains the country is currently experiencing, which points to a normal rain season.

Sugar

Sugar output is estimated to have declined by 19.8% from 536 000 tonnes in 2004 to 430 000 tonnes in 2005. Production is likely to increase by 8.1% to 465 000 tonnes in 2006. Sugar cane is grown under irrigation and improved dam levels are likely to impact positively on sugar cane production in 2006. Sugar cane production will also be supported by input schemes and technical expertise. The shortage and high cost of key inputs like agrochemicals; refinery chemicals; spares; labour; coal and fuel have negatively impacted on sugar production.

Wheat

Wheat production is estimated to have increased by 68.8%, to 135 000 tonnes in 2005 from 80 000 tonnes in 2004. It is projected to increase by 11.1% to 150 0000 tonnes in 2006 due to the timely availability of financing to procure inputs as well as improved fuel supplies for tillage purposes. 

Agricultural Output

Source: Central Statistical Office & Ministry of Agriculture

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