adminHigh input costs hit small-scale dairy farmers
Business Reporter
Expansion of the small-scale dairy sector is hindered by high costs of inputs, leading to low production, an official in the department of livestock production has said.
Late rains cause decline in soya bean production
The late onset of rains countrywide has caused a decline in soya bean production this farming season with at least 12 000 hectares having been planted by 30 December 2011, down from 21 000 the previous year.
According to the latest Agritex national crop report, production of the legume has been on a downward trend from a peak of 170 000 tonnes in 2001 to around 20 000 tonnes.
National demand for the crop is estimated at 220 000 tonnes per year but output is barely a quarter of that.
Hunting revenue up 16pc
Revenue from hunting and safari activities increased by 16 percent to $11,6 million in 2011 due to improvement of the macroeconomic situation in the country, an official has said.
Clinton hails Ali at 70
Muhammad Ali’s talent, charisma and strong principles were responsible for raising boxing’s popularity across the world, according to former US president Bill Clinton.
Clinton also credited Ali, who turned 70 yesterday, with helping pave the way for Barack Obama to become the country’s first black president.
“He made millions of people believe. He was something unique,” said Clinton.
Mancini’s red card plea draws criticism
Wayne Rooney could not help himself aiming a dig at Roberto Mancini after the Manchester City boss once again waved an imaginary red card during Monday’s 1-0 win over Wigan.
Mancini began gesticulating from the sideline after Maynor Figueroa deliberately handled the ball late in the game at the DW Stadium, stopping Sergio Aguero running through on goal. The incident comes just a few weeks after the Italian wanted Martin Skrtel sent off during City’s 3-0 victory over Liverpool.
Giants eye Egypt’s crown
Egypt’s Pharaohs made the last three Africa Cup of Nations tournaments their own, but this time around they will be conspicuous by their absence.
However, the three-times reigning champions will not be the only powerhouse missing at the 28th edition of the tournament held in Equatorial Guinea and Gabon from 21 January until 12 February. Nigeria, Cameroon and 2010 World Cup hosts South Africa also failed to qualify.
Henry apologises for swearing at Arsenal fan
Thierry Henry has apologised for swearing at an Arsenal fan following his side’s 3-2 Premier League defeat at Swansea City on Sunday.
Byo boxers itching for a fight in Josamu Memorial tourney
By Ricky Zililo
VETERAN boxing trainer Philip “Striker” Ndlovu has declared that his boxer Dumezweni Ntuliki is ready for next month’s title fight against former national super bantamweight champion Misheck Kondwani in Harare.
Namibia, Morocco booted out of Africa’s rugby elite
Harare Bureau
SABLES assistant coach Cyprian “Supa” Mandenge believes that the Confederation of Africa Cup tournament will still be difficult despite the demotion of highly ranked Namibia and Morocco.
Maritzburg United look to sign Malajila
Harare Bureau
CUTHBERT Malajila has agreed personal terms with Maritzburg United as the Dynamos chief striker’s move to South Africa appears imminent.
The striker has been on trials at the Pietermaritzburg side since last week and he was the only trialist who remained when the other six players who were also trying their luck at the club were advised to leave by the club following the sacking of coach Ian Palmer last Friday.