Matabeleland North misses wheat target, sets sights on higher output this season

MATABELELAND North province failed to meet its winter wheat production target of 2 500 hectares last season, provincial agronomist Khethiwe Nungu has revealed.

Ms Nungu disclosed this during the ongoing Agricultural and Rural Development Advisory Services (ARDAS) seminar at the Mhlahlandlela Government Complex in Bulawayo, where stakeholders are discussing strategies to improve wheat output.

She said although the province narrowly missed its target last season, it was aiming for a higher hectarage this year despite ongoing irrigation challenges.

“We had set a target of 2,500 hectares last season and managed to plant 2,358 hectares. This year, we are aiming for 3 000 hectares,” she said.

Ms Nungu said 1 754 hectares have so far been registered for wheat production this season, but warned that limited irrigation infrastructure could slow progress towards achieving the new target.

“We only have 14 irrigation schemes in the province, which remains a key limiting factor in expanding wheat production,” she said.

The province is looking to improve winter wheat output as part of broader efforts to boost national grain production and enhance food security.

The ARDAS seminar has brought together agriculture stakeholders to assess the state of wheat production and identify practical measures to overcome barriers affecting farmers.

Agricultural and Rural Development Advisory Services chief director Medlinah Magwenzi and Matabeleland North Agritex director Sibangilizwe Dlodlo are also attending the seminar.