Online Reporter
Judith Phiri,Zimpapers Business Hub
THE Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development has launched new climate-resilient wheat varieties engineered to withstand climate extremes and boost productivity.
These new Valley Seeds’ wheat varieties are the Zambezi and Limpopo.
Speaking during a field day at Mr Kwande’s East Range Subdivision 3 farm in Kwekwe on Wednesday, Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development Permanent Secretary, Professor Obert Jiri said innovation in seed development was central to the country’s efforts to increase productivity.
“The base of all cropping is the good genetics, the good breeds that we must have. The new varieties are a result of sustained research and commitment by Zimbabwean breeders. Their work ensures that farmers have access to improved seeds that can withstand the challenges posed by climate change while delivering better yields,” he said.
He said the launch of Limpopo and Zambezi varieties is not only a scientific milestone but also a practical boost for farmers.
Prof Jiri said these new seeds are expected to strengthen food security by providing more reliable harvests and by enhancing the resilience of Zimbabwe’s agriculture sector against erratic weather conditions.
“Such advancements are particularly vital as the country continues to adapt its farming systems to meet both national and regional food needs. The launch aligns with Zimbabwe’s agricultural development goals, aiming to increase wheat production and reduce imports.”
Meanwhile, the Permanent Secretary has urged wheat farmers to prioritise wheat harvest preparations.
He said 12,000 hectares of wheat were planted in Midlands Province, with Kwekwe District expected to play a significant role, hosting 10,000 hectares of the total area.
Prof Jiri added: “Farmers must make sure they continue irrigating their crops according to schedule to attain maximum grain weight before harvesting, monitor leaf browning and moisture content before bringing in combine harvesters. Also scout for aphids, quelea birds, and bollworms to prevent severe damage, maintain fire guards around wheat fields to prevent veld fires.”
He said farmers must have combine harvester arrangements by making sure they is early arrangements to avoid losses due to unexpected rains.
The Permanent Secretary further highlighted Government support for storage solutions as smart silos are now available to safeguard grain, multiple channels that includes the Grain Marketing Board (GMB) and private off-takers, are ready to ensure farmers receive fair value.
