adminMartha Leboho Masvingo Correspondent
Farmers in Gutu are unhappy over delays by the Grain Marketing Board in paying them for grain delivered to the parastatal last year. The farmers are resorting to side marketing and are paid cash on the spot.
The dealers, however, offer low prices. In an interview with The Herald, Mrs Sphiwe Mugari of Ward 8 said the GMB was taking long to process payments and this had forced farmers to sell to dealers.
“GMB will pay farmers after three weeks and sometimes three months, but private dealers come with instant cash and since every farmer needs cash, they end up selling their crops at cheaper prices just to get the money,” said Mrs Mugari.
Mr John Dube of Ward 1 said economic hardships were pushing farmers to opt for dealers who pay instantly.
“Farmers are facing economic hardships that need money and to wait for three weeks, its too long.
“Sometimes our children are expelled from school and the only option is to sell our grain to the dealers,” said Mr Dube.
GMB Eastern Region general manager Mr Tavonga Makuvara urged farmers to provide correct bank accounts to avoid inconveniences.
He said the GMB was working tirelessly to pay farmers on time.
Online Reporter