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Precious Manomano Herald Reporter
The Grain Marketing Board (GMB) has urged farmers to continue bringing in their produce in exchange for traditional grains or maize.
This follows Government’s advice to farmers to grow crops that are adaptable to their ecological regions.
Regions 1 and 2 are suitable for growing maize, while the production of crops that require less rainfall such as traditional grains are appropriate in Regions 3, 4 and 5.
In an interview, GMB chief executive officer Dr Edison Badarai said from last year September to December, about 56,6 tonnes of traditional grains and maize were exchanged under the scheme.
“The programme was successful, during the first three months. After the launch of the programme farmers were actively involved in the exchange of grains. We are encouraging Regions 3, 4, and 5, to grow traditional grains, you can still have access to maize if you want it. Do not shun traditional grains, we encourage you to grow more and then exchange them for maize,” he said.
He added that provinces such as Matabeleland North, South, Masvingo and Midlands were actively participating in the scheme and were bringing traditional grains in exchange for maize.
The area planted under traditional crops this year has increased significantly compared to last season as farmers diversify to boost food and nutrition security.
Government directed farmers in regions 4, 5a, and 5b to grow traditional grains as a way to promote and climate-proof agriculture.
Thus, traditional crops such as sorghum, millet, and rapoko are slowly becoming popular as people are becoming aware of their high nutritional value.
Online Reporter