marble nkomo
Mthabisi Tshuma recently in Bembenene
STAKEHOLDERS in Bulilima District have called on Government to review inputs distribution to Region 5 areas, which traditionally experience low rainfall.
Following two consecutive successful farming seasons, stakeholders said farmers should now be given the opportunity to diversify their crops with continued assistance from Government. Farmers were initially receiving support to grow small grains, which offer better yields in low rainfall regions.
Speaking during a field visit to Mr and Mrs Centre Ndebele’s farm in Bembenene Village, Bulilima Constituency legislator Cde Dingumuzi Phuti said the farming success story in the district was clear and that there was need for Government to reconsider inputs allocated to farmers in Region 5.
“It is pleasing to see that we have a crop of farmers who are doing well in farming a number of crops, maize included.
“They are doing extremely well and this should not go unnoticed.
As the area MP, I would like to call on the Government to review the inputs to some farmers and give them maize as we can see that they are able to produce enough for themselves and the community,” said Cde Phuti.
Ardas Matabeleland South Provincial Deputy Director Ms Francisca Ndlovu said farmers must continue adapting to changing climatic conditions.
“There is need for farmers to use climate-smart agriculture, mainly intwasa, to cope with climate change.
There is need for certified seeds and not open pollinated varieties. There is also need for early land preparation to allow planting with early rains. Diversification of crops to spread risks is also critical,” said Ms Ndlovu. ulilima District Agricultural Business Advisory Officer Mr Jonathan Makaranga urged farmers to continue increasing production to contribute to national food security.
“We are supporting the recommendation by Cde Phuti as a result of rainfall received in these regions,” said Mr Makaranga.
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