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The hectarage is still less than last year’s 403 655ha.
This summer season’s total hectarage could be less than the 2010 figure because good rains received thus far mean fewer people will opt for the drought-resistant small grains and instead plant maize.
Agriculture, Mechanisation and Irrigation Development Minister Joseph Made last week said, “Small grain farmers tend to shift their focus to maize when the rains are good.”
Despite Government efforts in recent years to promote production of small grains, many farmers still prefer maize.
The hectarage of soya beans last year was 48 010 and has fallen to 34 017ha this year.
A total 30 715ha of sugar beans were planted in 2010 and this season the hectarage is still at 18 697.
Minister Made said: “The crop condition is good for all cereals in the country.”
Small grains are a key component of national food security and pro-vide greater nutritional value than maize.
Londile Moyo
Bongani Ndlovu