5000ha put under potato

Theseus Shambare

Herald Reporter

FARMERS have planted over 5 000 hectares of potatoes against the national target of 9 750 hectares set for this season, as the country intensifies efforts to diversify food sources and meet rising demand.

Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development Permanent Secretary, Professor Obert Jiri, made these remarks on Friday at a field visit to Chibamu Enterprise at Ruago Farm in Goromonzi, where farmer Mrs Chipiwa Chibamu (43) has dedicated over six hectares to potato cultivation.

“In terms of our consumption patterns, we realised that 15 percent of our population, mainly the younger generation, now prefer alternatives to cereals – particularly potatoes and rice,” said Prof Jiri.

“This shift means we must expand production, and so far, our farmers are responding positively.”

He noted that while only just over 5 000 hectares have been planted so far, the majority of planting is expected in the coming weeks, especially during August.

Despite some short periods of supply gaps due to harvesting delays, he said, local farmers are managing to fully meet national demand.

“We are not importing any table potatoes. Our farmers are producing enough,” Prof Jiri said.

“The only major limitation is seed, which we largely import from South Africa. But we are working on boosting local seed production and tackling disease challenges. In five years, we hope to be self-sufficient.”

He praised Chibamu Enterprise as a demonstration of the Government’s Horticulture Recovery and Growth Plan in action.

“This is intensive horticulture at its best. The farmer is making the most of water availability, fertile soils and proximity to Harare’s market,” he said.

“This is what we mean when we say farming as a business. These farmers are leading the way to Vision 2030.”

Mrs Chibamu, whose farm also produces cabbage and green maize, said potatoes have been her most rewarding crop.

“I ventured into potatoes because the market is always ready and the returns are good,” she said.

“With the right support and planning, farmers like me can help Zimbabwe feed itself and even export.”