An estimated 2.4 million Zimbabweans are now in need of food and aid

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The European Union (EU) has urged Mr Mugabe to make the announcement to enable donors to raise funds quickly.

An estimated 2.4 million people are now in need of food and aid.

Zimbabwen officials are now importing maize from neighbouring Zambia.

Enos Janhi, a farmer, told AFP the rains have come too late this year.

He said: "The rains came too late to save the crops. Most of the maize wilted.

"Farmers are driving their cattle into the fields to graze on the drying stalks. The government must act urgently to bring us food."