Online Reporter
Faith Ndlovu, Sunday News Reporter
FARMERS from Mangwe District who embraced the Pfumvudza/Intwasa programme for the 2024/25 summer cropping season are now reaping the rewards with many sharing inspiring stories of success that underscore the initiative’s impact.
Mangwe District is part of the generally dry Matabeleland South Province which is in ecological Region 5, but farmers have noted that with the Intwasa farming technique, there is hope for a bumper harvest as it emphasises minimal land tillage to conserve soil fertility and moisture which are important for crop growth.
Mrs Simangaliso Ncube, a dedicated farmer from Macingwane Village said her crop farming is thriving under the Pfumvudza/Intwasa programme.
Despite the region’s low rainfall, she has found success after cultivating three plots of sorghum and half a plot of maize, with sorghum being her crop of choice due to its drought-resistant nature.
Mrs Ncube highlighted in an interview that the most exciting aspect of her Intwasa plots was the healthy condition that the crops showed saying they were now almost ready for harvest.
“This year, with the rains we have received, we are looking forward to a bumper harvest,” she said.
She expressed gratitude to the Government for its support, citing the provision of inputs and technical expertise from Agritex as key factors in their success.
“We are always encouraged to plant early, and for those who followed instructions, their crops are now ripe,” said Mrs Ncube.
Mangwe District Agricultural Extension Officer, Mr Moffat Ncube said the Intwasa programme has been a success for the 2024/25 summer cropping season with the district anticipating a good harvest.
“As we have travelled across the district to evaluate the crop situation, we have observed that a majority of the crops are faring well. Those farmers who enrolled in the Pfumvudza/Intwasa programme showed impressive results,” he said.
Mr Ncube said the Pfumvudza/Intwasa scheme has been identified as a game changer in terms of food self-sufficiency at the household level.
“A combination of good rains, effective agricultural practices and Government support will ensure food security for everyone,” he added.
Another farmer from Mzaza Village, Ward 13, Mrs Lingiwe Nkomo shared her optimism about the upcoming harvest despite the area’s history of low rainfall.
“We have planted a diverse range of crops across six plots including four dedicated to small grains like sorghum, as well as groundnuts and maize. This approach is a game-changer in the face of climate change, and we are in full support of the innovative farming concept,” she said.
She said Pfumvudza/Intwasa — a climate-proof agricultural practice has empowered farmers, maximised agricultural potential and enhanced productivity even in areas traditionally regarded as less productive in crop agriculture.
“Last season was challenging due to the adverse effects of the El Niño-induced drought. Many farmers faced difficulties, but those who followed the Pfumvudza/Intwasa approach with detailed discipline managed to harvest something,” she noted.
“I am hopeful for better yields this year after emerging from one of the worst droughts in recent memory.”
