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Luthando Mapepa
Chipinge Correspondent
THE marketing season for sugar bean in Chipinge has opened, with farmers calling for more support in selling their crop.
So far only a handful of leading companies have showed up to buy the crop.
A kilogramme of sugar bean is going for between US$0.80 and US$1.
Farmers were expecting to fetch at least US$1.20 per kg.
Farmers in Middle Sabi and Musikavanhu Irrigation Scheme, said although this year’s yield is not as good as last year’s they are expecting fair prices.
Chairperson of Middle Sabi Farmers’ Association, Mr Skumbuzo Thondlana, said competition among buyers is important as it brings fairness in pricing.
“The marketing season for sugar bean has started and we are hoping for fair pricing of the crop among the buyers,” said Mr Thondlana.
He warned farmers against dealing with unscrupulous middlemen who have since invaded the area.
Said Mr Thondlana: “Farmers are advised to deal with certified and reputable merchants to avoid being ripped off. They must not be desperate to sell their crop as some unscrupulous elements will cash in on that.”
He also urged those in contract farming to desist from side marketing and honour their contracts.
Another farmer, Mr Lucky Jeza of Settlers Section in Chipangayi, said many farmers are fretting over prices.
He said farmers need assistance to secure markets for their crop.
Online Reporter