adminTanaka Mahanya
THE GOVERNMENT has been commended for working to increase the productivity of small grains, as an adaptive strategy, to climate change.
In an interview with H-Metro, International Crops Research Institute for the Semi- Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) Zimbabwe research technician, Tanyaradzwa Tenesi, said they are working closely with the Government’s Crop Breeding Institute to release small grain hybrids, by the end of the year.
“Due to climate change, there has been a decrease in rainfall, hence, it is recommended that farmers grow small grains, which are drought tolerant, compared to large grains.
“Climate change-induced droughts in the country, over the past two decades, have hit resource poor farmers the most.
“We are working towards implementing activities contributing to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
“ It is our hope that we participate in transforming agriculture production, and food systems in Zimbabwe, and achieving Vision 2030,” Tenesi said.
Tenesi said they are working with farmers, and providing them with new varieties of millet, and sorghum.
“We are working towards strengthening linkages between farmers and markets, especially related to the goat market.
“The upcoming International Year of Millets, next year, will provide an opportunity for working closely with the Indian High Commission,” she said.
Mathew Masinge
Online Reporter