adminZimbabwe has an installed ginning capacity of 750 000 metric tonnes.
The economic meltdown experienced in the country in the past decade did not spare cotton production.
Agriculture Mechanisation and Irrigation Development permanent secretary Mr Ngoni Masoka told farmers during an annual cotton technical field day in Kadoma that the Government was committed to supporting production of the crop in the country.
“Cotton is an important crop to Zimbabwe and Africa,” he said. “This is achievable if farmers receive quality seeds in time and they are paid good prices.”
Zimbabwe is one of the major producers of cotton on the continent especially in the drier parts of the country, supporting over 250 000 households.
Mr Masoka urged farmers to use best practices in producing the crop.
“Farmers should also aim to increase yield per hectare as it is the only way to fetch more,” he said.
He said favourable prices paid last year had spurred a 14 percent increase in cotton production in the country.
On the state of the crop in the fields, Mr Masoka said generally in most growing districts it was in good condition.
Quton board chairman Mr Morgan Nzwere told the same gathering that the company was committed to delivering quality products to farmers.
“We are committed to the continued growth and development of the farming sector,” he said.
Quton, a subsidiary of SeedCo, organised the field day. — New Ziana.
Bongani Ndlovu
Online Reporter