Published: 04 May 2025

President Emmerson Mnangagwa is set to commission Zimbabwe's first-ever artificial intelligence-powered grain silos at the Grain Marketing Board (GMB) depot in Kwekwe tomorrow, marking a groundbreaking milestone in the country's agricultural transformation and digital innovation.

The commissioning of the 56 000-tonne smart grain storage facility, which houses seven state-of-the-art silos, represents a major step in the Second Republic's strategy to modernise national food security systems through cutting-edge technologies. The depot will receive its first grain delivery today in preparation for the official launch.

This pioneering initiative is the first of 14 grain depots undergoing modernisation and expansion, forming the foundation of a broader government vision to transform 21 depots nationwide by 2030.

"We are ready," said Engineer Andrew Mupariwa, Midlands Provincial Director of Agricultural Engineering and Farm Infrastructure Development.
"The state-of-the-art facility is now up and running and ready to start receiving grain from this successful season."

The AI-integrated silos, powered by Internet of Things (IoT) sensors, bring real-time monitoring of temperature, humidity, moisture levels, and carbon dioxide — all critical indicators for grain quality. These systems allow automated environmental adjustments that preserve grain integrity and prevent spoilage, mould, and pest infestation.

At the core of the facility is an AI engine that analyses sensor data to predict potential risks, recommend optimal storage practices, and trigger climate control systems only when necessary — a feature that also enhances energy efficiency.

Upon delivery, the system can instantly assess grain quality, directing it to the appropriate silo and generating a digital traceable record for transparency and accountability.

"The monitoring system gives us central oversight of silo operations, from intake to dispatch," said Eng Mupariwa.
"We've installed strong perimeter security and integrated anti-theft measures to ensure the protection of both the facility and the grain."

Zimbabwe currently requires around 2.2 million tonnes of grain annually for both human and livestock consumption. However, outdated infrastructure has led to losses of more than US$32 million per year, largely due to pest damage, moisture, and handling inefficiencies.

The modernisation of these 14 sites will boost national storage capacity from 650 000 tonnes to 1.43 million tonnes, an increase of 780 000 tonnes, making a substantial contribution toward national food self-sufficiency.

The commissioning of one upgraded or new facility at a time forms part of a phased rollout strategy, with Kwekwe acting as the flagship model for future installations in key grain-producing areas.

This historic development places Zimbabwe among the first African countries to integrate AI-driven systems into its public agricultural infrastructure, as the nation accelerates toward becoming an upper-middle-income economy by 2030.

"This project is a direct result of our deliberate shift toward appropriate technology," said a senior government official.
"It aligns with President Mnangagwa's vision for a modern, resilient agricultural sector."

The Kwekwe depot now stands as a symbol of technological advancement, efficiency, and national resilience in the face of climate variability and food security challenges.

Tomorrow's commissioning ceremony will not only celebrate the arrival of a new era in grain management, but also reaffirm the Government's commitment to leveraging innovation for sustainable development.
- herald

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