adminSenior Reporter
SEED potato farmers in Nyanga are having sleepless nights over the bacteria wilt scourge which is heavily affecting their crop.
Speaking at a field day held last Wednesday at Nyamoro Farm in Matema area of Nyanga District, seed potato representative, Mr Hlongwane Musengo, said the use of uncertified seed had increased the danger of bacteria wilt on the seed potato.
“Bacteria wilt is now a big problem here. It comes from uncertified seed and it can stay in the soil for a long period. It is also spread by water. Farming implements like tractors can also spread the disease. This disease has indeed caused havoc in surrounding areas here in Nyanga, therefore there is need to ensure that farmers are aware of the measures needed to take precautionary steps,” he said.
Speaking during the same function, farming chemicals manufacturer, Syngenta country head, Mr Joel Mkandla, said the acquisition and application of chemicals and fertilisers without proper knowledge of the nutrient content would not guarantee good results.
He also urged farmers to take soil nutrient content analysis before applying fertilisers and other chemicals in their operations.
In an interview on the sidelines of the same function, acting Nyanga District Administrator, Mr Richard Maruta, echoed Mr Mkandla’s sentiments, saying farmers need to equip themselves with the latest farming techniques.
Mr Maruta said there was need for more farmer education programmes to augment Government efforts in ensuring the country has enough food for its citizenry.
“It has become clear that there is need for farmer education in order programmes to augment Government efforts in ensuring the country has enough food for its citizenry.
“I am really delighted that we have successful farmers who are willing to share information with fellow small scale farmers. This will indeed go a long way in helping empowering small scale farmers because without the proper knowledge our farming activities cannot yield anything meaningful,” said Mr Maruta.
Online Reporter