Zimbabwe is experiencing a significant drought, leading to food insecurity for millions. The government is encouraging a return to traditional crops like millets and sorghum due to their drought-resistant properties, while consumer preferences still heavily favor maize. Policy changes and market developments are slowly increasing traditional crop cultivation, but societal perceptions remain a challenge. Education and initiatives are crucial for promoting these crops as viable food sources.
Zimbabwe is facing its worst drought in 40 years, exacerbated by an El Niño phenomenon, which has devastated rain-fed crops like maize. With 70% of the population relying on agriculture, the drought leaves over 7 million people in need of food assistance, pushing the government to seek US$2 billion in aid to address this crisis.
The ongoing droughts are likely tied to climate change and limited crop diversity. Traditionally drought-resistant crops such as finger millet, pearl millet, and sorghum were previously abandoned by small-scale farmers in favor of maize, introduced during the colonial era. The shift was largely influenced by the British colonial government’s promotion of maize.
Small-scale farmer Leonard Madanhire highlighted, “Last summer season, we experienced the worst drought ever. We lost our entire maize crop. The few farmers who planted pearl millet, finger millet, or sorghum had better yields. As farmers, it’s time we go back to our traditional crops.”
According to Anna Brazier, a Zimbabwe-based expert, the cultivation of traditional cereal crops is gradually on the rise due to evolving markets. Policy shifts emphasize the importance of millets and sorghum, promoting initiatives such as input distribution and agricultural support to combat food insecurity and nutritional issues.
As of 2025, over 322,606 hectares are under traditional grain cultivation, driven partly by price control measures. While NGOs have historically promoted these crops, changing market dynamics and governmental support have encouraged increased production and market engagement, resulting in growing consumer interest.
Brazier notes that consumer preferences remain a significant challenge; maize and wheat products are still more popular, complicating the shift toward traditional grains. Many consumers associate millets and sorghum with poverty, although health-conscious urbanites are slowly embracing these foods as awareness increases.
NGOs, health professionals, and various local initiatives have worked to boost the consumption of traditional grains. Food and seed festivals have contributed positively to the popularity resurgence, although further efforts are necessary to shift societal perceptions toward these crops.
Historical influences still play a role in shaping current agricultural practices. Persistent colonial attitudes have relegated traditional cereals to a lesser status, which continues to affect farmers’ decisions today. However, millets are now recognized as nutritious and climate-resilient foods capable of enhancing food security in Zimbabwe.
Ultimately, according to farmer Leonard Madanhire, a transition from maize may be gradual, but embracing millets and sorghum is essential for sustainable food security in Zimbabwe’s drought-prone landscape.
Zimbabwe’s agricultural landscape is at a critical juncture, facing severe drought and food insecurity. By promoting traditional drought-resistant crops like millets and sorghum, the country can diversify its agricultural practices and improve resilience against climate change. Governmental policy changes and market shifts are beginning to foster a more favorable environment for these crops, despite lingering colonial attitudes and consumer preferences that favor maize. Continued efforts from NGOs and health initiatives are crucial to enabling a wider acceptance of these sustainable food sources among consumers.
Original Source: foodtank.com
