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In November last year the target was pegged at 55 tonnes per hectare due to dwindling water levels in Manjirenji Dam to about 6 percent full.
This affected the crop mainly in Mkwasine Estate where the bulk of sugarcane is cultivated.
Tongaat Hulett Zimbabwe agricultural director Mr Farai Musikavanhu said that the heavy rains received in the country had restored confidence amongst small-scale producers.
“The estimate sugarcane harvest target for this year has been increased by 10 tonnes per hectare due to an increase in water levels in supply dams. Manjirenji is now 40 percent full meaning more water for irrigation,” he said.
Mr Musikavanhu said the area to be harvested has also increased by 22 percent to 13 700 hectares in 2013 from 11 200 in 2012.
He said despite the upward review, this year’s target was still lower than the 75 tonnes per hectare harvested in 2012.
Sugarcane production in the country is expected to surge following the successful implementation of the US$30 million revolving fund for small-scale sugarcane growers under the Sugarcane Farming Community Project. – New Ziana.
Online Reporter