Update from the 32nd Cabinet Briefing
Cabinet yesterday confirmed that Zimbabwe has sufficient national grain stocks, rising crop yields, and accelerating industrial growth, while unveiling detailed plans for this year’s SADC Anti-Sanctions Day.
The updates were delivered during the 32nd Post-Cabinet Media Briefing, which also addressed veld fire management and amendments to the SME Bill aimed at boosting formalisation and economic resilience.
Despite localised shortages, Zimbabwe remains food secure at the national level.
Winter wheat harvesting is 57.6 percent complete, with 385,267 tonnes delivered so far.
The barley harvest yielded 27,796 tonnes, while Irish potato production expanded to 5,977 hectares — surpassing last year’s yield per hectare.
Tobacco planting increased by 29 percent, reaching 21,773 hectares.
Government reaffirmed its goal to feed the nation, replenish the Strategic Grain Reserve, and grow exports.
Preparations for SADC Anti-Sanctions Day, set for October 25, are underway under the theme “Inclusive Development through Heritage-based Innovation and Industrialisation in a Multilateral World.”
Government will highlight people-centred policies and the resilience of Zimbabweans in resisting external pressure.
The President’s address will be shared with host governments and international organisations, alongside a SADC Statement marking the occasion.
Domestic commemorations will include an Anti-Sanctions Solidarity Gala, a documentary showcasing SME achievements, a public lecture, and student-led panel discussions aimed at fostering dialogue and awareness.
On the industrial front, Cabinet presented the Zimbabwe Industrial Reconstruction and Growth Plan (2024–2025) as a transitional framework bridging the expired policy and the upcoming Zimbabwe National Industrial Development Policy 2 (2026–2030).
The plan seeks to reduce imports, enhance local production, and unlock export potential.
As of September, implementation stands at 70 percent, with 115 activities underway across four strategic pillars.
The commerce sector contributes up to 60 percent of GDP, while manufacturing accounts for 15 percent of real GDP and 7 percent of formal employment.
Growth has been recorded in cement production, trailer assembly, and fertiliser manufacturing.
Infrastructure investment continues, including the US$10 million Century Auto vehicle manufacturing plant.
Cabinet also reported that 211 veld fires have destroyed 76,940 hectares of land, resulting in three deaths and over US$1.45 million in property damage.
In response, 177 fire awareness meetings have been held, reaching more than 30,000 people.
Farmers are urged to adopt fire suppression measures and avoid using fire for land preparation.
Finally, Cabinet approved principles for amending the Small and Medium Enterprises Bill.
The proposed changes aim to formalise MSMEs, accredit associations and service providers, and redefine MSME classifications.
The amendments are expected to enhance MSME participation in industrialisation, employment creation, export growth, and the attainment of Vision 2030.
