President to launch 56 000t grain silo facility

Source: President to launch 56 000t grain silo facility – herald

Freedom Mupanedemo  and Wallace Ruzvidzo

All is in place for the commissioning of the country’s first-ever Artificial Intelligence-powered grain silo by President Mnangagwa in Kwekwe, Midlands Province, today.

The milestone development is part of the Second Republic’s broader initiatives to embrace appropriate technologies across the sectors of the economy, with agriculture being one of the major pillars of the economy.

This advancement marks a crucial step in the Second Republic’s initiative to adopt modern technologies across various sectors, with agriculture leading the digital transformation.

The 56 000-tonne facility, which includes seven cutting-edge silos, was expected to have received its first grain delivery in preparation for today’s official launch.

Kwekwe District Development Coordinator, Mr Fortune Mpungu, said all was set for today’s historic event with the Silos now ready for commissioning by the President.

“It is all systems go, and we are happy to be the district to embrace such a modern facility,” he said.

The new silos have a combined capacity of 56 000 tonnes and are part of the Government’s initiative to construct new technologically advanced silos across the country to revolutionise the agricultural sector

Midlands Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister Owen Ncube yesterday toured the silos as part of the preparations for the official commissioning by President Mnangagwa.

“Everything is now ready for the commissioning of our new silos and we are so excited as a province,” he said.

Minister Ncube stated that the new grain silos will play a critical role in enhancing the country’s food storage capacity, reducing post-harvest losses and ensuring food security.

“By providing a safe and efficient way to store grains, the silos will enable farmers to preserve their produce for longer periods, thereby stabilising food supplies and prices,” he said.

Minister Ncube said the initiative is expected to have a positive impact on the livelihoods of thousands of farmers and their families in Midlands Province and beyond.

The new silos feature drying and cleaning facilities, a significant upgrade from the old system as the country modernises its grain storage infrastructure.

Midlands Provincial vice chairman Cde Lewis Matutu stated that today’s commissioning is a testament to President Mnangagwa’s dedication to enhancing the country’s agricultural capabilities.

“President @edmnangagwa will commission 56 000t silos in Kwekwe Midlands province next week on May 5, 2025. Previously, Midlands and Matabeleland South among other provinces used to rely on silos in Chegutu, disadvantaging many farmers with the potential to support the economic recovery of the country, it’s over!!!,” he wrote on his official X handle.

Cde Matutu emphasised the importance of such infrastructure in the country’s development matrix.

“ . . . focus on what is critical, food security is very important for our country, before we think of exporting our produce to other countries.

“Silos usually store strategic grain critical to feed our nation particularly areas in need.”

Thanks to the President, said Cde Matutu, Zimbabwe had “no food crisis”.

“Currently, we have no food crisis in Zimbabwe. If there is anything contrary, please enlighten me . . . ,” he said.

In an earlier interview Midlands province director of agricultural engineering and farm infrastructure development, Engineer Andrew Mupariwa, said everything was set for the commissioning today.

“We are ready,” he said.

“We want to take our first delivery test before May 5. The state-of-the-art facility is now up and running and ready for the commissioning by the President for it to start receiving the grain from this current successful season.”

He said the necessary preparations have been done to ensure today’s commissioning is a success.

Unlike traditional storage units, the new silos are equipped with advanced technologies that integrate AI, internet of things (IoT) sensors and automated environmental regulation.

The silos are strategically positioned to sustain milling industries along the agricultural value chain, both upstream and downstream, creating employment and sustaining livelihoods.

By investing in infrastructure that supports the agricultural sector, the Government is creating opportunities for value addition and increased economic activity.

The commissioning of the grain silos aligns with the Government’s efforts to promote industrialisation and economic growth, and is expected to have a lasting impact on the lives of Zimbabweans.

This state-of-the-art facility is being implemented across 14 Grain Marketing Board (GMB) depots nationwide, complementing the existing 750 000 tonnes silo capacity, with the country targeting a 1.5 million tonnes strategic grain reserve once the project is completed.