Published: 5 hours ago

Alarming signs of household food stock depletion have emerged in drought-affected regions - particularly Matabeleland South - raising fears of growing food insecurity despite national stability, according to the latest Food Security and Markets Monitoring Report.

While Zimbabwe's overall food situation remained stable in September 2025, supported by steady supplies and controlled prices, the World Food Programme (WFP) cautioned that this national stability masks deepening local crises in drought-stricken communities.

"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 said.

"As stocks diminished, an increasing number of households are relying on markets for food access."

The situation is most severe in Matabeleland South, where many households have become increasingly dependent on food assistance and casual labour to survive.

Although grain cereals remain available in major markets such as Gwanda, high transport costs continue to limit affordability for vulnerable families, forcing many to reduce meal frequencies or depend on less nutritious substitutes.

The report noted that light rain showers received towards the end of September had sparked new green shoots, offering a brief respite to farmers. However, the immature vegetation poses new challenges.

"This immature pasture can negatively affect livestock health, often causing bloating or diarrhoea due to its high moisture and low fibre content," the report warned.

At the same time, rising incidents of veld fires are further threatening pasture availability and livestock survival, worsening the vulnerability of households that rely on animal husbandry.

Despite the dire situation, the report highlighted some bright spots - particularly irrigated farm plots in Hwange and Matobo, which continue to yield maize and horticultural crops. These are expected to sustain some households through the lean season and provide income from surplus sales.

Nationwide, land preparation for the 2025/26 agricultural season has begun, with favourable rainfall forecasts offering cautious optimism for improved harvests and food access in the coming months.

The WFP and other humanitarian agencies have urged continued monitoring and targeted support to ensure that drought-affected regions, especially in Matabeleland South, do not slide into a full-blown food crisis before the next harvest.
- Southern Eye

You might also want to read this

• Zimbabwe declares food self-sufficiency
• Zimbabwe records 290% increase in food production
• Zimbabwe's food security strengthens
• Food aid in Zimbabwe needed until December
• 8 millions of Zimbabweans still need of food aid
• Food contract for Zimbabwe's security services sparks debate
• Companies comply with food fortification
• Fast food outlets increase prices