Online Reporter
Sikhumbuzo Moyo, Zimpapers Writer
UMGUZA farmers have been urged to make full use of their arable land and involve young people in farming, to boost national food security and ensure sustainable agriculture.
Speaking at the district’s annual Agricultural Show held at Aerodrome Hall in Ward 7, Matabeleland North provincial agronomist Ms Zenzele Ndlovu said proper land use, combined with youth participation, is key to securing the future of farming.
“For us to talk of sustainable agriculture, we must fully utilise our land and involve our children, so the future is guaranteed.
“You are aging, and there will come a time when your legs can no longer carry you,” she said.
Ms Ndlovu urged farmers to embrace technology to improve yields, which will contribute to the country’s Vision 2030 goal of achieving an upper-middle-income economy and ensuring food security. She also stressed the importance of nutrition.
“As we work towards sustainable agriculture and food security, let us not forget nutrition. I urge you to grow nutritious crops and practice horticulture all year round,” she said.
The three-day event attracted 72 exhibitors with over 500 displays, including small livestock such as chickens, rabbits and peacocks, field horticulture, value-added crops, pottery and stands from agricultural product and seed companies.
Umguza Agricultural Show Society chairperson Mr Robert Sondokhulu Ndlovu said the show was aimed at encouraging farmers to share ideas and improve farming methods and yields.
“We want Umguza to be self-sustaining in terms of food and other income-generating projects. We are pleased with the quality of exhibits and the turnout from all 19 wards in the district,” he said.
The show’s overall winner, Ms Siphindile Khumalo of Ward 19, received a wheelbarrow, a rack, a 60-litre dish and an insecticide sprayer.
“I am so excited. I never thought I would win. This motivates me to keep participating, even in national events like the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair,” she said.
Running under the theme: “Sustainable Agriculture for Food Security”, the event came a week after Bulawayo’s provincial capital hosted its show, where Lupane State University Faculty of Agriculture Dean, Dr Mlamuleli Mhlanga, emphasised that agriculture plays a pivotal role in achieving the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1), Vision 2030 and the African Union’s Agenda 2063.
Dr Mlamuleli Mhlanga said agriculture is a sector capable of driving economic growth, ensuring food security and promoting sustainable development.
