Online Reporter
Nqobile Bhebhe Zimpapers Business Hub
The Government has begun distributing seed to all Grain Marketing Board (GMB) depots across the country, with the full rollout expected to be completed before the end of this month, in preparation for the forthcoming cropping season.
Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Resettlement Minister, Dr Anxious Masuka, said the timely delivery of inputs is central to ensuring that farmers are adequately equipped before the onset of the rains.
“We have begun delivering various types of seed to all Grain Marketing Board (GMB) depots, and we expect that the full distribution will be completed this month.
“Although we are currently behind schedule with fertiliser deliveries, we anticipate that distribution will begin next week. The fertiliser will be delivered to GMB depots and subsequently distributed to villagers through committees led by local leaders, councillors and traditional authorities.
“To ensure that only legitimate beneficiaries receive the inputs, we are introducing a card-based system. According to the Meteorological Services Department, the rains are expected to begin in November, while October is forecast to be dry and extremely hot. Our goal is to ensure that all inputs are delivered before the onset of the rains in November and December,” said Dr Masuka during oral answers to questions without notice in Parliament on Wednesday.
Legislators sought clarity on whether peri-urban farmers would also benefit under the Presidential Input Scheme.
In response, Dr Masuka said the inclusive nature of the programme, as directed by President Mnangagwa, ensures that no community is left behind.
“His Excellency, the President, has emphasised that no place and no one should be left behind, which is why these initiatives are referred to as Presidential Schemes.
“However, it is important to note that agriculture is designated for agricultural zones. Urban areas are primarily residential and do not accommodate farming activities. In Zimbabwe, we have established that urban agriculture is not permitted, as farming should take place on land specifically allocated for agricultural purposes, not within urban settlements.
“I recall that during last year’s severe drought, the President recognised that rural farmers who typically support urban populations were facing significant challenges.
“In response, we extended input support to peri-urban farmers to help supplement food production. However, in seasons where favourable rainfall is expected, we intend to return to the standard practice. Those residing in urban areas who wish to engage in farming are encouraged to relocate to designated farming regions,” he said.
The Government’s input support programmes, particularly under the Presidential Schemes, remain a critical pillar of national food security, with emphasis on empowering communal, A1, and smallholder farmers to contribute to the country’s agricultural recovery and Vision 2030 goals.
