Online Reporter
Patience Maturure
Agriculture Reporter
THE preparation of Pfumvudza/Intwasa plots is gaining momentum, with nearly 5 million plots already established by farmers countrywide.
Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development Permanent Secretary Professor Obert Jiri said the early rains had significantly accelerated preparations.
“The showers, locally known as Gukurahundi or Bumharutsva, are very important because they soften the soil and make it easier for farmers to start working their fields,” he said.
“These showers came just at the right time, and farmers are now moving faster to make sure their fields are ready.”.
Government is pushing for a record-breaking Pfumvudza/Intwasa season and is urging every household to prepare at least three plots to reach a target of over 15 million.
“Last season, Zimbabwe recorded 11.9 million Pfumvudza plots, and this year the goal is to surpass that,” he said.
“This will not only boost food security but also help families cope better with the challenges of climate change.”
Zimbabwe has excelled in conservation agriculture under the Pfumvudza/Intwasa programme. The concept was aimed at climate-proofing agriculture by adopting conservation farming techniques.
It involves applying correct agronomic practices for higher yields and returns on a small piece of land.
The concept has inspired other countries and they are now emulating it.
