Matabeleland South farmers vow to bust sanctions with increased yields

FARMERS from Matabeleland South Province have vowed to defeat sanctions through increased food production following the distribution of Presidential farming inputs yesterday, ahead of the 2024-25 cropping season.

Communal farmers are the backbone of the country’s agriculture sector and over the years have managed to deliver thousands of tonnes of grain as they defy sanctions and dependence on donors.

Following the launch of the countrywide inputs distribution programme, farmers are confident that producing their own food will conquer recurrent climate change-induced droughts and weaken the impact of sanctions on the economy.

The pledge comes as a response to the Government’s growing support in providing essential resources to bolster agricultural activities across the country.
Speaking during the provincial inputs distribution programme launch in Matobo District yesterday, Chief Fuyana of Matabeleland South said small-scale farmers and villagers were ready and determined to feed the nation.

“We are determined to overcome any challenges that may arise and we are grateful for the assistance provided by the Government to boost our farming efforts.
“The provision of these farming inputs has been instrumental in empowering farmers in the province and they will assist in enhancing agricultural productivity and contribute significantly to the national food security initiative,” said Chief Fuyana.

He said through the distribution of such essential resources, the Government has demonstrated its steadfast commitment to sustaining the agrarian sector and ensuring a stable food supply for all citizens.
“We stand united in our mission to overcome obstacles and remain resilient in the face of adversity. With the support of the Government and our community, we are confident that we can overcome any challenges to food security,” said Chief Fuyana.
A prominent farmer in the area, Ms Proper Nkomo, said the collaboration between the farmers and the Government exemplifies a harmonious partnership aimed at fostering sustainable agricultural practices and ensuring food sovereignty in the nation.

She said despite the challenges posed by illegal sanctions imposed by the West, the unwavering determination of farmers in the region highlights an unwavering spirit and determination to thrive amid adversity.
As the agricultural landscape in Matabeleland South continues to evolve, Ms Nkomo said the resilience and dedication of farmers, who are tasked with farming small grains, will serve as a beacon of hope for the entire nation.

“By harnessing the support provided by the Government and leveraging their expertise, farmers in the region are poised to make significant strides towards achieving long-term food security goals,” she said.
Another farmer Miss Ndlovu from the same area said the inputs will propel the nation to food security, in light of Western sanctions.
“We will forge ahead and from what we are learning and have learnt from farming techniques. We will overcome these Sanctions,” she said.
President Mnangagwa on Tuesday launched the Presidential Agricultural Climate Proofing Input Support Programme (Pfumvudza/Intwasa) for the 2024/2025 summer cropping season in Buhera District, Manicaland Province.

Matabeleland South Province is the second to receive the inputs across the country and each family was given a 50kg bag of fertiliser, various small grain seeds and chemicals for insect control. Stakeholders including farmers, agriculture benefactors, captains of industry, legislators and senior Government officials attended the event.
Matabeleland South Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Dr Evelyn Ndlovu said the province is recognised among the first to conduct the initiative in the country.

“I am challenged by the loss of livestock due to climate change effects everywhere I go.
I, therefore, appeal that the ministry responsible should initiate sustainable resilience measures that will grow our gross domestic product (GDP),” she said.

“Let’s remember and recall that slogan by our founding Father Joshua Mqabuko Nyongolo Nkomo when he said ‘Nxa ufuna imali — lima’ and at the same time celebrating culture and progress and also setting the stage for an opportunity to celebrate not only our rich heritage but also the remarkable growth and potential of our beloved Matabeleland South.”

Dr Ndlovu said the Intwasa Summer Season is more than just a series of activities but also a celebration of the country’s identity, and a recognition of strength as a diverse community uniting in our passion for culture, arts and innovation that builds resilience in both farming systems in light of the illegal Western-imposed sanctions.

“This year, we have curated an array of events designed to engage every member of our community through social welfare programmes where communities work in their plots to get food handouts,” she said.
Dr Ndlovu urged commercial farmers, agro-dealers and transporters to provide distressed farmers with a platform to showcase their work and celebrate their talent.

“This is an opportunity for us to appreciate the skills that have been passed down through generations, as well as to encourage the new voices that are emerging within our community,” she said.

“Moreover, the Intwasa summer season serves as a crucial vehicle for economic development. This year, we aim to foster collaborations between local entrepreneurs and farmers to create an outpouring effect that benefits our entire farming community.”