Governor Machaya distributes 100t seed maize

Presidential Inputs Scheme.
Each of the 45 chiefs received 3,6 tonnes of seed maize for the summer cropping season to help disadvantaged families in their areas. Many chiefs collected their allocations a few weeks ago and only a few who had not received theirs got it yesterday.
The province, which has six cotton growing districts, also received an undisclosed amount of cotton seed for its farmers under the same scheme.
Speaking at the handover ceremony held at the Grain Marketing Board’s Gweru depot, Governor Machaya said the Presidential Inputs Scheme confirmed President Mugabe’s love and respect for chiefs.
He said President Mugabe decided to support agriculture to boost food security after realising that the Inclusive Government was downplaying the importance of agriculture.
“As you are aware, some people in the Inclusive Government are not in support of agriculture. The Ministry of Finance does not prioritise agriculture in its budget.
“His Excellency, President Mugabe has taken it upon himself to ensure food security in the country. He approached well-wishers worldwide and mobilised resources to procure the inputs we are handing over to you today. Last year we received inputs from the President and this year we even received more inputs,” said Governor Machaya.
He said the inputs came at an opportune time when farmers had just completed preparations for the summer season.
“Farmers’ preparations for the season went on well. Only the issue of inputs was holding them back. I am grateful to the President for availing the seeds at the right time,” said Governor Machaya.
The Midlands province received 113 tonnes of seed maize. The seed was bought from leading companies – Panner, Seed Co and Pioneer.
Governor Machaya said the failure by the Inclusive Government to fully support agricultural activities has prompted President Mugabe to call for elections as the other parties “had proved to be difficult to work with”.
He said chiefs were instrumental in community development issues, including food security.
Governor Machaya said chiefs were well placed to articulate people’s needs at grassroots level.
“Therefore, because you are strategically placed, Government through the Presidential Inputs Scheme expects you to take this gesture to every disadvantaged family in your communities.
“It is my hope that all chiefs will uphold their responsibility by ensuring that the inputs are equitably distributed to all the beneficiaries in their communities,” he said.
Governor Machaya said the Midlands had also asked the President to help provide the province with cattle under a restocking programme carried out in Matabeleland region.
He said the Midlands had many areas that were into cattle ranching like Shurugwi.
Chief Bunina of Lower Gweru expressed gratitude to President Mugabe for helping them take care of their disadvantaged subjects.
“This gesture has proved that our Government is concerned about our welfare. A person who is well fed is generous and understanding but a poorly fed person is often cruel and disorganised. Improved food security will help our communities to become better places to live in, it makes our subjects better people who are easy to govern,” he said.