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Luthando Mapepa Post Correspondent
FARMERS in the low veld have been urged to grow small grains in this coming planting season in order to harvest high yields.This was said by Assistant District Administrator for Chipinge, Mr Tedious Beto while officiating at a seed fair organised by Plan International on Wednesday at Bitcon Shopping Centre in Chipinge South.
The seed fair saw over 900 farmers in wards 22, 24 and 25 benefiting from the inputs.
The farmers received a voucher worth $30.
The event also saw small grain multipliers from Mwenezi District exhibiting their small grain seeds.
Said Mr Beto: “Small grains are an immediate solution to the current drought we are facing as a nation and Chipinge District in particular.
“We encourage you to embrace this initiative from Plan International and grow small grains for their consumption as well as to sale to other areas.
“Government appreciates every effort from various stakeholders including Government departments to improve food security in the country.
“I therefore want to thank Plan International for assisting the 900 farmers with small grain inputs in Chipinge.
“It is my hope that farmers will work hard during this farming season and produce more food surplus for their families and the nation at large.
“These three wards are among the worst hit by the current El Nino-induced drought in the district and the only solution to harvest high yields in this drought prone area is to grow these small grains,” said Mr Beto.
The event saw companies that supply agricultural equipment exhibiting their products.
Plan International is currently working with the Department of Agritex to train small grain seed multipliers in Chipinge.
Agritex officials encouraged farmers to seek expert advice from extension workers so that they get maximum yields.
Beneficiaries interviewed appreciated the donation by Plan International and promised to work hard to improve their yields.
Online Reporter