daniel chigunwePrecious Manomano
Herald Reporter
FINANCIAL institutions have stepped up to finance farmers in a collaborative strategy with Government aimed at enhancing agricultural production and strengthening food security across the country.
The move has since bolstered stakeholders’ optimism on the current season’s potential as it addresses vital production nuggets that include financing, irrigation, mechanisation and farmer support.
Commenting on the development recently, Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development Permanent Secretary Professor Obert Jiri said: “The Bankers’ Association of Zimbabwe (BAZ) has made substantial resources available, totalling ZiG852, 970 million and US$163,120 million. This funding will enable farmers to access targeted financing through the AFC Land Bank and other institutions.”
The Government’s commitment to enhancing irrigation infrastructure is evident, with 120 000 hectares being allocated for irrigation this summer season. This marks a significant increase from the 75 000 hectares utilised last year.
At least 38 735 hectares of maize and 2 097 hectares of soya beans are under irrigation this season with sugar beans and other irrigable crops taking up the remaining hectarage.
This targeted approach to crop-specific water allocation, coupled with supplementary water provisions, demonstrates a proactive stance toward optimising agricultural outputs.
Mechanisation also played a crucial role in this season’s preparations with the Government reporting the availability of over 15 000 tractors, 9 230 disc harrows and 11 212 ploughs.
“These resources have already enabled us to till 1 156 000 hectares, and we aim to increase this figure substantially by the end of the season,” Prof Jiri noted.
The mechanisation efforts have not only improved efficiency, but also encouraged farmers to adopt modern farming practices.
The Government has been proactive in ensuring adequate fertiliser supplies with 174 732 tonnes of fertiliser of which 102 631 tonnes are basal currently available. The country needs 780 000 tonnes of both basal and top-dressing fertilisers per season and Government is working diligently to ensure they are available.
On the one hand, the Crop Life Association has confirmed its readiness to provide the necessary agricultural chemicals for the season, highlighting ongoing efforts to train farmers on integrated pest management and the importance of alternating chemical groups to combat resistance.
Given that electricity is a critical input for agricultural production, ZETDC is currently working with Agritex to update farmers’ database to improve services for both summer and winter cropping.
Online Reporter