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Elton Manguwo
GOVERNMENT has started distributing farming inputs to holding centres across the country following the unveiling of the US$1, 6 billion summer agriculture plan by cabinet on Tuesday.
Speaking during a press conference yesterday, Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development permanent secretary Professor Obert Jiri said the distribution of key farming inputs like fertilisers, pesticides, seed and irrigation equipment to holding centres across the country had already commenced as part of the preparations for the summer season.
“These holding centres serve as provincial hubs where the various agricultural inputs are aggregated and then allocated to individual farms within each province and district,” said Professor Jiri.
The Presidential Pfumvudza/Intwasa scheme will target 3, 5 million beneficiaries including 500 000 farmers from peri-rural areas.
The Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development is working flat out to expedite the distribution of the inputs to ensure that those who have completed digging potholes and gathering mulch receive the necessary supplies and resources.
“The inputs for the Presidential Pfumvudza/Intwasa programme will be distributed to farmers that have prepared three plots in adherence to the set principles of conservation agriculture, showing readiness as part of a broader climate adaptation and resilience strategy,” said Professor Jiri.
The strategy is meant to ensure that the inputs benefit the vulnerable members of the community and guarantee maximum production.
Professor Jiri added: “This involves implementing enhanced strategies and programmes to help households and communities better prepare for and adapt to the impacts of climate change such as extreme heat, drought and other weather-related challenges.”
Government is looking to ensure proper management and distribution of agricultural inputs through the e-inputs monitoring platform as a way of preventing abuse or misuse of fertilisers, pesticides and seed.
Professor Jiri explained that the e-inputs monitoring platform was an important part of their overall strategy to improve agricultural productivity and resilience in the country. By preventing abuse of inputs the platform will help maximise the impact of investments in farming inputs.
This technology is seen as valuable fool proofing against activities that could undermine food security for local communities.
“By having this detailed monitoring in place, the agricultural institute hopes to discourage any attempts to divert, hoard, or misuse these important farming inputs,” said Professor Jiri.
Government is also intensifying efforts to ensure that farmers adhere to the principles of the Pfumvudza/Intwasa programme, as they are key towards sustainable food production amid the prevailing climate change challenges.
Professor Jiri underscored the urgency of this increased focus, noting that the widespread vulnerability faced by communal households demanded a concerted, multi-faceted response.
“The Presidential Pfumvudza/Intwasa programme is seen as a crucial component of Government’s strategy to bolster food security and build the resilience of these communities in the face of the prevailing climatic challenges,” he said.
Online Reporter