Source: GMB timely payments restore farmer confidence -Newsday Zimbabwe

Stakeholders in Zimbabwe’s agricultural sector have applauded the Grain Marketing Board (GMB) for disbursing payments on time, a reform that is revitalising farmer confidence and boosting grain delivery efficiency.

Zimbabwe Agricultural Think Tank (ZAAT) secretary, General Taruvinga, Magwiroto stated that the GMB’s progress in clearing payment backlogs marks a pivotal shift in rebuilding trust in the state grain buyer.

“GMB payments to farmers are now being timeously disbursed, which has brought significant relief,” said Magwiroto.

“If we get it right with GMB, everything will fall in place. A guaranteed market encourages farmers to move beyond subsistence and produce surplus for GMB.”

Under the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2) framework (2026–2030), Treasury has committed to clearing legacy arrears, while the Agriculture Food Systems and Rural Transformation Strategy 2 (AFSRTS2) mandates the GMB to settle deliveries within 30 days, a policy ensuring predictable cash flow and sustained production.

Magwiroto urged the GMB to deepen engagement with smallholder farmers to streamline grain collection and expand formal market participation. He also called for investments in rural industrialization and infrastructure to unlock potential in regions like Buhera, Tsholotsho, and Nyajena.

“Government has assured farmers of 30-day payments—that is a huge improvement. But policy must meet implementation,” he said.

“Infrastructure renewal and adequate funding are essential. GMB has historically been underfunded, with payments delayed by up to a year. Strengthening it will ensure competitive pricing and reliable off-take.”

Magwiroto emphasised that a robust GMB is central to rural development, stabilizing markets and driving higher output among smallholder farmers.