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Agriculture Specialist Writer
AS efforts to climate-proof agriculture intensify, the Agricultural Marketing Authority (AMA) is championing the expansion of strategic crop contracting for the current summer season with 22 registered so far, up from last year’s 19.
The efforts by AMA come on the backdrop of heightened prospects of a good agricultural season anchored on the predictions of a La Nina-characterised term.
AMA chief executive officer, Mr Clever Isaya said his organisation had been instrumental in fostering strong collaborations between farmers and contractors, ensuring smooth implementation of structured production programmes.
“This expansion in contracting shows the confidence contractors have in Zimbabwe’s agricultural sector and it is a testament to our efforts in facilitating partnerships that drive productivity and profitability for our farmers,” said the AMA boss.
He said a key highlight of this year’s contracting programme was the significant expansion of sorghum production, reflecting the Government’s commitment to promoting traditional grain production.
“A total of 31 376 hectares of sorghum have been contracted for this season, nearly tripling last year’s 11 846.
“This remarkable increase underscores the success of national policies aimed at strengthening food security in the face of climate change” he added.
The Government selected cotton alongside sunflower as the key policy crops, which can be engines for transformation of rural communities.
To advance this Government position, Mr Isaya said sunflower production had also recorded a notable surge, with 17 892 hectares contracted this year compared to 15 075 hectares in the previous season.
“The growing interest in oilseed crops aligns with Government efforts to reduce Zimbabwe’s reliance on imported edible oils while providing farmers with viable income-generating opportunities,” he added.
By coordinating key players in the agricultural value chain, the authority has helped secure input support, technical assistance and guaranteed markets for farmers participating in the programme.
The 16 percent increase in contracting figures signal a positive outlook for Zimbabwe’s agriculture sector, with expectations of improved yields and enhanced livelihoods for farmers.
With AMA continuing to strengthen market linkages and mobilise more contractors, the sector is poised for sustained growth, benefiting both producers and the broader economy, he added.
Mr Isaya said AMA remained committed to facilitating partnerships that empower farmers and contribute to national development goals.
With results of the recently conducted crop and livestock assessment still to be shared, all eyes are now on the performance of these strategic crops, as Zimbabwe moves towards a more resilient and market-driven agricultural landscape.
Speaking at the second edition of the World Cotton Day celebrations in 2023, Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development Minister, Dr Anxious Masuka said Government had earmarked cotton and sunflower as key policy crops with the power to transform rural communities for agricultural growth leading to rural industrialisation and development for attainment of Vision 2030 objective.
“The President has selected cotton alongside sunflower as the key policy crops. Cotton and sunflower are smallholder crops and can be engines for transformation of communities. Government is currently a facilitator and actor in the cotton value chain, but when the sector is fully established it ceases the actor role and focusses on facilitation,” he said then.
The Government is spearheading the adoption of resilient and economically viable crops through targeted policies and incentives, with farmers in agro-ecological regions 4 and 5 mandated to produce traditional grains, oil seeds and livestock feed.
These initiatives are crucial in mitigating the effects of erratic weather patterns while ensuring national food, nutrition and oilseed security for the country.
Online Reporter