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Chenai Museta
GOVERNMENT is not taking chances on the success of the forthcoming 2024/25 season with over 5 000 tonnes of seed having so far been distributed to Grain Marketing Board (GMB) depots in preparation for the new season.
Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development permanent secretary of Professor Obert Jiri said his Ministry had initiated several programmes to improve agricultural productivity in the upcoming season.
He explained that over 20 000 tonnes of fertiliser and 5 000 tonnes of seed had already been distributed to GMB depots nationwide. Prof Jiri also urged farmers to prepare their plots and apply mulch before receiving inputs adding that this was essential to facilitate efficient distribution of inputs.
Meanwhile, various financial institutions are also stepping up to help farmers secure the necessary resources. The National Enhanced Agricultural Support Scheme emphasises improving food security by ensuring that farmers have the tools needed for a successful season.
Prof Jiri also revealed that the Agricultural and Rural Development Authority (ARDA) programme was targeting 100 000 farmers and was aligning its resources to ensure the availability of fuel, seed and fertilisers.
“These efforts are expected to make a significant contribution to the national strategic grain reserve,” he added.
Contractors are mobilising resources focusing on maize and soya beans. Their goal is to get at least 40 percent of their raw material needs domestically.
Self-financed farmers, on the one hand, have been encouraged to procure their inputs and prepare for the upcoming season riding on current initiatives by Government to keep fertiliser and seed prices affordable.
Chief director for the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development Advisory Services (ARDAS), Mr. Leonard Munamati said the Pfumvudza programme was already underway, with input distribution soon commencing across all provinces.
The Pfumvudza/Intwasa programme is targeting 9, 5 million plots and to ensure continuity by maintaining the same plots from last season cultivated. This approach not only promotes permanence but also enhances sustainability in agricultural practices.
“So far, farmers have prepared 2, 3 million plots and we expect this number to rise significantly as we approach the national launch of Pfumvudza,” Mr Munamati stressed.
The national launch for the Pfumvudza/Intwasa programme is scheduled for October 16, 2024 in Buhera with President Mnangagwa expected to be the guest of honour. This is part of the Government’s broader strategies to address food and nutrition security at the household level, particularly in the face of the growing challenges posed by climate change.
Pfumvudza/Intwasa represents a transformative climate proofing concept designed to protect communities from the unpredictable impacts of climate change, ensuring that food security is achieved and maintained.
Online Reporter