Online Reporter
Patience Maturure-Agriculture Reporter
Farmers are being urged to take precautions against veld fires during the wheat harvesting period.
Farmers who planted their wheat crop early have already started harvesting.
Zimbabwe Integrated Commercial Farmers union president, Mrs Maiwepi Jiti, said in an interview with Zimpapers Online.
“I advise farmers, especially those with a wheat crop ready for harvesting, to ensure there are fire guards on their farms,” she said.
“The fireguards should be clear of debris and vegetation to prevent fires from spreading. It is also important for farmers to monitor weather conditions and pay attention to forecasts, especially during dry and windy conditions,” she said.
Mrs Jiti said during wheat harvesting, farmers should minimise sparks and have an emergency response plan.
“During harvesting, farmers should use machinery that minimises sparks and keep fire extinguishers nearby,” she said.
“They should also develop and communicate an emergency response plan to quickly respond to veld fires. Stay alert and updated on the local fire danger ratings and alerts. “Using technology through drones or other technologies to monitor fields for early signals is also important,”
Government interventions in the agricultural sector have made Zimbabwe self-sufficient in wheat production, insulating the country from global supply chain disruptions caused by geopolitical tensions, climate change and market volatility.
At least 600 000 tonnes of wheat are expected this season.
