By Timeforbusinessstudios October 29, 2025
In a symbolic gesture of progress and food-security ambition, President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa today officially commissioned the new “smart” silos at the Grain Marketing Board (GMB) depot in Mutare, heralding what government describes as a key milestone in the modernisation of Zimbabwe’s grain storage infrastructure.
A Leap Forward in Grain-Storage TechnologyThe facility, described as “AI-powered” by government officials, comprises seven large silos with a combined capacity of more than 56,000 metric tonnes. It is designed to reduce post-harvest losses by enabling real-time monitoring, quality control, and improved management of the national grain reserve.
As President Mnangagwa unveiled the ceremonial plaque at the site, he emphasised that the commissioning marks a new phase for Zimbabwe’s agricultural sector. “With this facility,
Mutare becomes a national hub for modern grain handling. We are building capacity so that our farmers are never at the mercy of losses that undermine their hard work,” he said.
People’s Voices: Hope, Song and CelebrationOn the ground, the atmosphere was festive. Locals gathered early to await the arrival of the Head of State, some breaking into spontaneous song and dance as the commissioning ceremony unfolded.
Long queues formed outside the depot, underscoring the public interest in the event.One farmer, Mrs Chikwekwe from neighbouring Mutasa District, expressed relief and optimism.
“Finally, our maize will be stored safely. We won’t dread trucks leaving half our harvest in the field,” she said.Her sentiments echoed those of many farmers in the region who view the new silos not just as storage facilities, but as a promise of stability and better livelihoods.
Linking to a Broader Strategy The commissioning of the Mutare silos forms part of a broader government plan to roll out similar high-tech storage facilities at 14 locations across Zimbabwe over the next two years.
The event also coincided with the official launch of the Ministry of Agriculture’s 2026-2030 strategy, signalling government’s commitment to modernising not only infrastructure but the entire grain production and distribution value chain.
Challenges Remain But the Promise is RealDespite the optimism, experts caution that storage capacity alone cannot solve Zimbabwe’s food-security challenges. Issues such as consistent power supply, transport logistics, farmer access to inputs, and market stability remain critical.
However, for many in Mutare and the surrounding provinces, today’s ceremony represented tangible progress a structure built of concrete, metal and technology, yet symbolising the resilience and aspirations of ordinary citizens.
A young technician at the site captured this sentiment best: “It’s more than a building. It’s a tool for our mothers, sons, and daughters whose families depend on maize every day.”
What Lies AheadIn the coming months, focus will shift to ensuring that: The silos are effectively integrated with transport networks for efficient grain movement. Smallholder farmers have fair access to storage and market opportunities.
The national rollout of similar smart silos maintains quality, speed, and accountability. The commissioning of the Mutare Smart Silos may not solve every agricultural challenge overnight, but it marks a pivotal step forward.
For a nation that has long battled food insecurity, the sight of modern silos rising against the hills of Manicaland stands as a hopeful reminder that through innovation, investment, and collective effort, Zimbabwe’s harvests can finally be safeguarded for generations to come.