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The Herald, October 31, 1979
CONEX says the national wheat stockpile from last year’s crop is sufficient to cover any shortage which may result if heavy rains damage the crop being harvested now.
Mr John Brown of the Department of Conservation and Extension’s Cereal Advisory Service said yesterday the 1978 residue had boosted by half the national wheat output delivered so far this season.
Mr Brown said the 4 percent annual increase in internal wheat consumption had dropped in July 1975 when the Government ordered more bran to be used in bread and baking products in a bid to save currency on imported wheat.
The 4 percent increase could not be attained in 1976 when the order was lifted because the TTL market was difficult to penetrate due to the security situation, Mr Brown said.
“However, the consumption rate is expanding but not as before,” he said, adding the country was producing enough wheat for internal needs.
He said Matabeleland’s 5,5 percent contribution to the national wheat output could be improved by irrigation schemes.
A Conex spokesman in Bulawayo said wheat farmers in Matabeleland should complete harvesting soon and prepare land for other crops.
Rain last week stopped harvesting on Tilcor’s three Matabeleland estates in Plumtree, Lupane and Kezi.
A company spokesman would not comment yesterday on what the position was now.
Our representative writes that the Midlands area, which produces about 10 percent of the national wheat crop, should have a very good crop.
A Conex spokesman said the Midlands generally has not had such adverse weather conditions, particularly rain, as some parts of the country.
The biggest Midlands producers are in the Sherwood area near Que Que where there was about 3 000ha under wheat.
Most of that has already been harvested.
LESSONS FOR TODAY
- Wheat is an important cereal that is used to make bread and other confectionery items and is an excellent source of protein, vitamins, minerals, fibre, and carbohydrates.
- The Midlands Province remains the biggest wheat producer in the country.
- It is important to have wheat cover that is more than a year. The country through concerted efforts has sufficient cover this year as some farmers in areas that previously were not known for producing wheat did so this year.
- Government has this year mobilised combine harvesters to expedite the harvesting of the crop which could be affected by early rains.
Online Reporter