Tinaye Agere
Theseus Shambare
Wheat farmers must expedite harvesting to avoid potential quality degradation caused by excessive moisture that has been caused by recent rains across the country, an official has said.
Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development permanent secretary Professor Obert Jiri said the recent rainfall, while beneficial for summer cropping, had slightly delayed wheat harvesting in some areas.
“We are, however, excited to say that the condition of the wheat harvested so far is pleasing.
“Congratulations to our farmers for their resilience,” he said.
Professor Jiri urged farmers to use Grain Moisture Meters (GMMs) to accurately measure grain moisture content, particularly when harvesting in wet conditions.
“Even if moisture levels exceed the recommended 12.5 percent, farmers should prioritize timely harvesting to minimize potential quality degradation,” he said.
“Under the mantra ‘early warning, early action #Vision 2030’, we are taking timeliness as a key principle in all agricultural activities to achieve food security everyday and everywhere.”
He also advised farmers to deliver their wheat grain to designated Grain Marketing Board (GMB) depots in accordance with the stipulated guidelines.
Online Reporter