Online Reporter
Nothando Zondo, @[email protected]
Farmers from across Insiza District gathered at Avoca on 10 July for the annual Insiza Agricultural Show, where exhibitors displayed farming innovations and value-added products. Experts used the event to urge farmers to adopt climate-smart agriculture to boost food security.
The show was officially opened by Matabeleland South Provincial Director for Agricultural and Rural Development Advisory Services, Mrs Shupikai Sibanda.
She challenged farmers to prepare for climate change by using climate-smart farming methods.
“El Niño is likely to remain one of the challenges affecting agricultural production.
“As extension officers, we need to continue advising our farmers to prepare and adopt climate-smart technologies so that we minimise the effects of climate-related disasters,” said Mrs Sibanda.
She assured farmers that the Government and its partners have put measures in place to support them against changing weather patterns.
“There is no need for our farmers to panic because various strategies have already been put in place to support agricultural production despite these climatic challenges.
“What is important is that we continue working together and adopting the recommended farming practices,” she said.
Mrs Sibanda also urged exhibitors to focus on value addition.
She said processing farm produce increases its value and improves farmers’ incomes.
“I encourage our farmers not only to produce but also to display value-added products. Value addition creates more opportunities, improves marketability and enables communities to derive greater benefits from their agricultural produce,” she said.
Insiza District Agricultural Business Advisor, Mr Augustine Mhike, said the show brought farmers together to exhibit achievements and share knowledge on improved farming practices.
“The exhibition featured a wide range of displays, including field crops, climate-smart agricultural technologies, value-added agricultural products, arts and crafts, products from Village Business Units, as well as soaps and detergents manufactured by members of the local community,” said Mr Mhike.
He said the show provided an important platform for farmers to learn about innovations in the district. It also encouraged the adoption of sustainable practices that strengthen food security and improve household incomes.
