Online Reporter
Sikhumbuzo Moyo
OVER 130 small-scale farmers in Kwite East village, Ward One, Mangwe District in Matabeleland South Province, are counting heavy losses after torrential rains over the weekend destroyed crops spanning nearly 200 hectares.
The destructive rains, which pounded the area, wiped out a variety of crops, raising serious food security concerns for the affected community.
Mangwe District Development Co-ordinator Ms Matilda Mlotshwa confirmed the damage, saying sorghum was the most affected crop.
“The sorghum crop was mostly affected compared to other crops, and the village now faces serious food security challenges as a result of this occurrence. A total of 135 farmers have been affected,” said Ms Mlotshwa.
She said approximately 75 hectares of sorghum were destroyed, along with 50 hectares of maize, 35 hectares of pearl millet (unyawuthi), 12 hectares of peas, eight hectares of groundnuts, 2,5 hectares of butternuts, 1,5 hectares of melon vines (amajodo) and 1,2 hectares of watermelons (amakhabe).
In a separate incident linked to the same spell of severe weather, a villager in Ward Four, Mr Arthur Ncube, lost two cattle and his entire homestead after it was struck by lightning.
“Mr Ncube’s homestead was completely destroyed by lightning, leaving him homeless and in urgent need of assistance for shelter,” said Ms Mlotshwa.
Authorities are assessing the situation to determine the extent of humanitarian support required as affected families grapple with the aftermath of the rain-induced disaster.
