Farming is a noble task — Minister

The Herald, 25 September, 1981

THE Minister of Agriculture, Senator Denis Norman, yesterday presented certificates to pioneer graduates of Kushinga-Phikelela Agricultural Institute near Marandellas.

He said the graduates had taken “a noble profession” as Zimbabwe would have to double its production within the next 12 to 15 years to feed the expanding population.

“The need for food is already with us, although we are in a privileged position in that we do not always suffer from adverse weather conditions.”

Increased production, the senator said, would enable the agricultural sector to contribute to the national budget by selling the surplus externally to earn foreign currency.

Senator Norman said the concept of reconciliation had been interpreted in various ways, but as far as farmers were concerned, there was no difference because they had similar problems and were “always moaning” in unison.

“Basically, the brotherhood of farming is the same throughout the world,” he said.

Replying to President Banana who had called on the Ministry of Agriculture to “get itself increasingly involved in this worthwhile project, particularly in the area of funding,” Senator Norman said:

“The Treasury had given clearance that we can meet some of the salaries of lecturers at this institute.

“I will pursue this matter further in the hope that all salaries will be met by my ministry.”

LESSONS FOR TODAY

Farming remains a cornerstone of Zimbabwe’s economy. It provides employment for a significant portion of the population, particularly in rural areas where many families rely on agriculture for their livelihoods. The sector contributes to national GDP and is vital for exports, with crops like tobacco, cotton, and horticultural products being key contributors to foreign exchange earnings.

In a country where food security has been challenged by economic fluctuations and climatic changes, farming plays a crucial role in ensuring that communities have access to sufficient food.

Initiatives such as Pfumvudza/Intwasa are meant to improve crop yields through innovative techniques that enhance productivity while promoting sustainable practices. These methods not only help farmers meet their own needs but also allow them to sell surplus produce, contributing to local economies.