GMB Opens Over 1,800 grain collection points to boost market access for farmers

 Sharleen Mohammed

THE Grain Marketing Board (GMB) says it has opened 1,804 grain collection points across the country to make it easier and cheaper for farmers to deliver their crops this marketing season.

 GMB Chief Executive Officer, Dr Edson Badarai, said this while giving oral evidence before the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Lands and Agriculture in Harare.

 “We would want to advise our dear farmers that we have opened 1,804 collection points for them to deliver grain. Right now, it is already happening with areas like Bikita, Kotwa, and various others. Local leadership has already indicated that farmers should come and deliver, and we have collected so much now,” said Dr Badarai.

 The collection points are part of efforts by the government to bring convenience to farmers, cut down transportation costs, and improve market access especially in remote areas.

 “These depots help reduce the cost of transportation for farmers,” Dr Badarai explained. “It brings convenience, and at this point, the farmers can also do grain swap where we have traditional grain. You can also get inputs now and pay later when your grain is sold.”

 The CEO added that the GMB has made significant progress in clearing payments to farmers.

 “We have cleared the USD component for the winter season. We are now left with only 12.8 million ZIG,” he said.

 Farmers are reportedly delivering good volumes daily, with others waiting for their crops to dry before delivering.To support logistics, GMB has received 20 trucks from President Mnangagwa to assist with input distribution and moving grain between depots.