By Dennis Lobuntu Ndlovu |Zim GBC News
Worrying signs of food shortages are emerging in Zimbabwe’s drought-hit areas, particularly Matabeleland South, according to findings from the latest Food Security and Markets Monitoring Report.
Although Zimbabwe’s overall food supply remained steady in September 2025 due to consistent availability and stable prices, conditions in Matabeleland South tell a different story.
The World Food Programme (WFP) cautioned that national stability may be overshadowing a growing crisis in local communities.
The report linked the depletion of household food stocks in several districts to irregular rainfall and extended dry spells.
“WFP food security monitoring indicated a gradual depletion of household food stocks across monitored districts, particularly in areas affected by prolonged midseason dry spells and erratic rainfall patterns,” the report stated.
“With stocks running low, more families are now turning to local markets to access food,” the WFP said.
The situation is especially critical in Matabeleland South, where many households have begun to rely heavily on food aid and piecework to survives
Cereals are still available in major trading hubs like Gwanda, but high transport costs are preventing many vulnerable families from purchasing them.
Despite the challenges, the report mentioned a brief window of relief with recent rainfall, which spurred fresh plant growth in the region.
“Light rain showers received towards the end of September in Matabeleland South have triggered new green growth however this immature pasture can negatively affect livestock health, often causing bloating or diarrhoea due to its high moisture and low fibre content,” said the report.
“Rising incidents of veld fires are also threatening pasture availability and livestock health.”
There is some optimism, however, as irrigated plots in places like Hwange and Matobo continue to produce maize and vegetables. These harvests could support households during lean periods and offer some financial relief through surplus sales.
Across the country, preparations for the 2025/26 farming season have begun slowly, but improved rainfall forecasts are bringing renewed hope for stronger harvests and better food security.
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