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Elton Manguwo
THE Government is making significant strides in curbing post-harvest losses through the construction of state-of-the-art grain storage facilities, a development that is set to guarantee food security in the wake of climate change.
Addressing delegates at the commissioning of state-of-the-art silos and a dryer at Hunyani farm the Deputy Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, Vangelis Haritatos said the commissioning of these facilities goes beyond mere storage, it symbolised a dedication to minimising post-harvest losses and safeguard food production.
“The historical absence of sufficient storage and drying facilities has often resulted in considerable post-harvest losses of about 30 percent,” said deputy Minister Haritatos underling that without proper infrastructure farmers struggle to preserve produce leading to spoilage and reduced marketability.
The event marked a pivotal moment in the Government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the agricultural sector and enhance the livelihoods of farming communities nationwide.
Deputy Minister Haritatos emphasized the critical role that agriculture plays as the backbone of the national economy, underlining the importance of investing in infrastructure that supports farming initiatives.
The newly commissioned facilities are part of a broader Government strategy to increase the country’s strategic grain reserves.
“The investment in this key agricultural infrastructure not only contributes towards curbing post-harvest loses but also to building a strategic grain reserve for a more reliable food system,” said deputy Minister Haritatos.
The US$1, 2 million silos development comes at a time the country is preparing for the 2024/25 agricultural season, with expected early rains.
The construction of the grain dryer is timely, as it will not only boost the nation’s drying capacity but also facilitate a swift transition for farmers from wheat to maize production, ensuring readiness for the anticipated early rains.
“These silos will substantially boost the country’s grain storage capacity, particularly as the country looks forward to a record wheat harvest projected to exceed 600,000 metric tonnes,” said deputy Minister Haritatos.
The enhancement in storage capabilities is crucial, as it allows for effective management of surplus, reducing the risk of wastage and ensuring that farmers can retain more of their harvest for sale.
The investments in storage infrastructure is set to compliment the established of robust monitoring system that track post-harvest losses and assess the effectiveness of implemented strategies.
“By equipping our farmers with these advanced facilities, we are enabling them to store their produce securely and sell at competitive prices and this not only enhances their income but also promotes sustainable agricultural practices,” deputy Minster Haritatos stated.
Deputy Minister Haritatos urged a comprehensive Government approach to tackle the nation’s food security challenges, highlighting the need for collective action to foster an environment that benefits both present and future generations.
“By working together, we can create an environment that supports sustainable agricultural practices, enhances resilience against climate change, and ensure food availability,” he said.
Online Reporter