Online Reporter
Theseus Shambare
Zimbabwe is intensifying efforts to protect its winter wheat crop from the destructive quelea birds, which have long posed a significant threat to cereal production.
Through a multi-faceted approach, Government said it had so far eliminated nearly 44 000 birds in three days at the Birchenough Bridge station.
Initially, it had been reported that an estimated 50 000 quelea birds were at the Birchenough Bridge station.
The operation, which achieved a remarkable 90 percent control rate, highlights the country’s commitment to safeguarding food security.
The reliance on technology has become a cornerstone of Zimbabwe’s agricultural strategy. Aerial spraying has emerged as a key method for controlling quelea birds, supported by advanced agricultural equipment, including drones and aircraft.
Permanent Secretary for Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, Professor Obert Jiri, said they use aeroplanes in quelea control.
“Additionally, in 2023, we acquired nine Agras T40 drones that intensified the fight against the menacing quelea birds,” he said in an interview.
“As we move to achieve wheat self-sufficiency, losses need to be reduced at all costs.”
These drones can effectively treat a 40-hectare roosting site in just 30 minutes, making them invaluable in the effort to minimise crop losses.
Quelea birds are responsible for up to 95 percent of wheat losses annually in affected regions, with each bird consuming approximately four grammes of wheat per day.
An invasion of a million birds can destroy over 40 000 tonnes of wheat in a single day, making timely intervention crucial.
Amid the challenges, Zimbabwe is poised to celebrate a record wheat season. Over 122 000 hectares have been planted, surpassing the initial target of 120 000 hectares.
The anticipated output is projected at 600 000 tonnes, a significant increase from last year’s 468 000 tonnes.
This surplus of 240 000 tonnes would exceed the country’s annual consumption needs of 360 000 tonnes, paving the way for greater self-sufficiency.
Prof Jiri emphasised the importance of reducing losses to achieve this goal.
“Technology is no longer optional in agriculture. It is the backbone of our ambition to be a food-secure nation and a regional wheat exporter,” he said.
The integration of smart agricultural technologies is seen as essential for future-proofing Zimbabwe’s food systems.
Beyond quelea bird control, the Government is exploring how precision farming, Artificial Intelligence-driven analytics for soil health and advanced drone technology can optimise water and electricity usage while increasing yields with minimal environmental impact.
Agronomist and ARDA board chairman, Mr Ivan Craig, highlighted the transformative potential of these technologies.
“The integration of smart agricultural technologies is not just an upgrade; it is a necessity for future-proofing our food systems,” he added.
“Precision irrigation, for instance, reduces water wastage significantly, and AI can predict optimal planting times and fertiliser needs, leading to higher yields with fewer resources.”
Farmers are already reaping the benefits of these technological advancements.
Mrs Esther Makwara, a farmer from Glendale, shared her experience.
“Government officers stepped in offering support, training and land preparation guidance, better seed choices and market linkages.
“Today I own a tractor, feed my family and mentor other women,” he said.
Her success story exemplifies the positive impact of Government initiatives like the Land Reform Programme.
Permanent Secretary for Defence, Mr Aaron Nhepera, who is also a top farmer, has planted 60 hectares this season and praised Government for support.
“Last season, we achieved five tonnes per hectare, but with the good agronomic practices we are learning from extension officers, we expect to hit seven tonnes,” he said last week.
Government is also keen on fostering partnerships with the private sector, including local technology firms and international innovators, to drive the adoption of advanced agricultural technologies.
Banks and agro-dealers are expected to play a vital role in supporting contract farming and mechanisation, facilitating farmers’ access to these tools.
