Online Reporter
Precious Manomano
Herald Reporter
The Government has mobilised 15 381 tractors to support farmers during this year’s winter wheat season.
The 15 381 tractors are a huge improvement on the 1 800 tractors that were made available last season. Additionally, 343 combine harvesters are set to become available by next month, ensuring successful harvesting operations.
The necessary chemicals for the wheat season are readily obtainable from various suppliers.
This year’s wheat production is bolstered by the involvement of private contractors, the National Enhanced Agricultural Productivity Scheme (NEAPS) and the Presidential Wheat Support Scheme.
In his weekly report, Agricultural Advisory and Rural Development Services chief director Mr Leonard Munamati, indicated that the country has mobilised sufficient resources for the winter cropping season.
Land preparations for winter wheat are progressing well with farmers capitalising on the moisture brought by the recent rains.
Zimbabwe Commercial Farmers Union (ZCFU) president, Dr Shadreck Makombe, emphasised the need for farmers to urgently finalise land preparations so that they begin planting.
“Farmers should scale up land preparations, taking advantage of the current moisture. They should do preparations early to avoid disasters caused by early rains,” he advised.
In terms of water supply, the Zimbabwe National Water Authority (ZINWA) has assured water users that there is ample water in dams to meet the 120 000-hectare winter wheat target. Meanwhile, power utility Zesa has committed to providing an uninterrupted electricity supply throughout the season.
This coordinated effort underscores the Government’s dedication to enhancing winter wheat production in Zimbabwe, with a strong focus on resource availability and timely preparations by farmers.
