Online Reporter
Patrick Chitumba, [email protected]
IN an effort to combat the effects of climate change, communal farmers in Shurugwi South, Midlands Province, are embracing smart agricultural practices and traditional grains to improve food security and household income. The farmers’ success was highlighted at the recent launch of an aquaculture training programme and the construction of two fish ponds at Manzini Garden. The event showcased a variety of thriving crops, from small grains to tomatoes, demonstrating a significant turning point for the community.
Mrs Miriam Sibanda, a local villager, shared how the shift to cultivating small grains has brought both sustenance and renewed hope.
“With climate change affecting our livelihoods, we have turned to growing traditional grains, and the results have been remarkable. Our yields have significantly improved. We are grateful for the Government’s support, which has been instrumental in our success,” she said.
Mrs Sibanda explained that agricultural extension workers have played a key role in guiding farmers towards traditional grains, while the provision of inputs has enabled them to fully embrace the initiative.
“Not only do traditional grains boost our yields, but they also promote healthy eating, making them a win-win for our communities,” she said.
Speaking to the farmers, the Deputy Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, Davis Marapira, praised their efforts, stating that their work is a testament to the potential of sustainable agriculture.
“The Government’s strategy seeks to build on the success of these farmers, providing them with the tools and resources needed to thrive in an increasingly challenging environment,” he said.
He emphasised that by promoting traditional grains and supporting local agriculture, the Government aims to enhance food security and improve the livelihoods of rural communities. Deputy Minister Marapira also noted that the initiative aligns with the National Development Strategy (NDS1), which prioritises food security and nutrition as key drivers of national growth.
“With the effects of climate change increasingly threatening rain-fed agriculture, the strategy seeks to empower rural farmers with sustainable solutions that safeguard livelihoods and nutrition. The farmers in Shurugwi South have emerged as a living testimony to the benefits of smart agriculture, after showcasing their produce at the weekend in an exhibition that highlighted the role of traditional grains in sustaining household food security,” he said.
Shurugwi South legislator Cde Wilson echoed these sentiments, highlighting the impact of programmes such as Pfumvudza/Intwasa, village business units, and irrigation schemes in uplifting households.
“It is heartwarming to see farmers now able to produce their own food, with some even generating surplus for sale, leading to improved household incomes. That is why we are here — to equip them with more skills and inputs so they can achieve food, nutrition, and security in line with Vision 2030,” he said.
Shurugwi South now boasts 22 village business units, eight of which are solar-powered. The Government has also introduced the Presidential Community Fish Programme, which will see the establishment of two fish ponds in the area. This initiative is part of broader efforts to diversify rural incomes through aquaculture.
The programme provides fingerlings and training, enabling communities to earn income strengthen food security, and build sustainable livelihoods. It forms a key pillar of the wider Presidential Rural Development Programme, which is designed to transform rural areas into thriving economic hubs.
