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Elton Manguwo
GOVERNMENT is looking to decentralise the Zunde raMambo/Isiphala seNkosi concept to village level in a development that will enhance and customise services based on the unique needs of specific areas.
Speaking during a summer preparedness webinar held last week, Agriculture and Rural Development Services (ARDAS) extension specialist Mr Tawanda Nekati said the Zunde raMambo was set to be implemented at the village level to empower local leadership to discharge services on behalf of chiefs while fostering greater community participation.
“This localised approach will not only improve service delivery but also ensure that resources are allocated more effectively, addressing the distinct challenges and opportunities faced by each community during the summer agricultural season,” he said.
In the 2024/2025 the Zunde raMambo/Isiphala seNkosi programme will target a total of 300 chiefs, 500 headmen and 36 000 village heads.
“The programme is set to cultivate 9 587 hectares of maize and 5 478 hectares of sorghum in acknowledgement of these crops’ statuses as important nuggets of the food security matrix that can enhance food availability and access within communities,” said Mr Nekati.
The input package for Zunde raMambo/Isiphala seNkosi initiative will include maize seed, traditional grain seed, herbicides and fertilisers for three plots.
The 2024/2025 Summer Plan is based on the strategies and measures for drought mitigation and resilience building.
The Zunde raMambo scheme will allocate 10 plots for chiefs, seven plots for headmen and five plots for each village head.
Modelled around the farmer field schools’ concept with a view to give experts a platform, the Zunde raMambo concept will seek to impart basic farming knowledge to farmers.
These village field schools will provide a centralised point where farmers will interact with extension agents
“This concept represents a comprehensive extension services approach designed to educate farmers on the principles and practices associated with adopting the Pfumvudza/Intwasa model,” said Mr Nekati highlighting that the initiative aims to equip farmers with the knowledge and skills necessary for maximising crop production.
By focusing on the specific tenets of the Pfumvudza/Intwasa model, the Zunde raMambo/Isiphala seNkosi seeks to improve agricultural efficiency and sustainability.
It emphasises best practices in soil management, crop rotation, and resource utilisation, all tailored to local conditions. Through workshops, training sessions, and hands-on demonstrations, farmers will gain valuable insights into innovative farming techniques that can significantly enhance their yields.
The Zunde raMambo/Isiphala seNkosi is a participatory education approach that brings together a group of small-scale farmers to solve production problems through sustainable agriculture. The approach offers space for hands-on group learning, enhancing skills for observation and critical analysis and improved decision making by local communities.
Ultimately, this initiative aspires to transform agricultural practices within the community, fostering greater food security and economic stability for farming families.
Online Reporter