malvernmugadzikwa
Theseus Shambare
IMPLEMENTATION of the new electronic agricultural inputs distribution system has significantly improved the efficiency and transparency of the Pfumvudza/Intwasa programme, helping curb fraud, double allocation and abuse.
The system allows for real-time tracking of agricultural inputs from Government warehouses to Grain Marketing Board (GMB) depots and, ultimately, to individual farmers at ward level.
It maintains a comprehensive database that records farmers’ details at national, provincial, district and ward levels, which helps to streamline the ongoing distribution of inputs for the 2024/2025 summer cropping season.
Agricultural Advisory and Rural Development Services (AARDS) acting chief director Mr Leonard Munamati said the system has been effective in ensuring that inputs reach intended beneficiaries.
“We have deployed department directors from the ministry to all districts, who will be doing random checks at GMB distribution points and checking with farmers to ensure that inputs reach the intended beneficiaries on time and in order,” he said.
The e-inputs system ensures that inputs are only released to eligible farmers identified by agricultural extension officers, who verify compliance with Pfumvudza/Intwasa requirements.
This rigorous process has made it challenging for unscrupulous individuals to divert inputs for personal gain.
“Agritex officers are responsible for identifying farmers who have complied with the Pfumvudza/Intwasa principles,” said Mr Munamati.
“GMB only releases inputs based on the names provided by these officers.
At least 87 percent of maize seed has been distributed so far.”
Additionally, the Government’s decision to carry over unused basal fertiliser from the previous winter and summer cropping seasons has further enhanced distribution efficiency.
The Pfumvudza/Intwasa programme has also been tailored to suit the country’s diverse agro-ecological regions, ensuring inputs align with the specific needs of each area.
GMB depots are tasked with distributing inputs appropriate for each of the five agricultural regions to maximise productivity.
Under the programme, 777 000 hectares (ha) will be put under cereals, while an additional 286 230ha have been set aside for oilseeds.
At least 3,5 million households, including 2,5 million from the communal A1 plots, small-scale commercial farming and old resettlement areas, along with 500 000 in peri-rural regions, are expected to benefit under the programme.
The Government is targeting to ramp up cereal crop production by 340 percent to 3 274 200 tonnes this summer, up from 744 271 tonnes recorded last season.
Online Reporter