‘Farmers need support’

West Governor and Resident Minister Faber Chidarikire said the private sector should foster relations with farmers to boost agriculture production.
Kent Estates,  a subsidiary of Ariston Holdings, is assisting nearby farmers with tillage equipment and free advisory services.
On the other hand, Pannar Seed (Private) Limited is offering free advisory services to its clients and seed varieties suitable for different agro-ecological districts. Governor Chidarikire said it was through the two parties’ relationship that farmers at Kent Estates were getting knowledge on farming.
“It is my wish that the relationship be fostered with farmers and is spread throughout for the success of our country and improve our lives.”
Kent Estates ceded land to Government for resettlement in 2002 benefiting 33 A2 farmers, a commercial farmer and more than 35 A1 farmers.
Cde Chidarikire said since then, the estate management has continued to work closely with farmers.
Kent and Nando’s South Africa are launching an outgrower scheme for chillies, and Cde Chidarikire encouraged farmers in the area to take advantage of this to increase their profits.
The estate is also involved in environmental management projects.
Kent general manager Mr Wellington Madzingautswa said the company campaigns against cutting down of indigenous trees and veld fires. Kent Estates excelled in producing Pannar’s two new varieties — Pan 53, Pan 8M-91 and soyabean Pan 891. The farm also grows horticultural crops and vegetables and is into livestock production.
Pannar agronomist Mr Ngoni Rufu urged farmers to pay attention to crop management as this had an impact on the total yield. He emphasised on the need to plant on time, application of adequate fertilisers in the correct way and weeding.