mbulelo smpofu
Mthabisi Tshuma, [email protected]
FARMERS in Matabeleland South Province have planted over 75 percent of their targeted crops for the 2024/25 farming season, raising hopes for a successful harvest.
The province’s seven districts have benefited from substantial rainfall, particularly in December and January, which has bolstered planting efforts.
Official reports indicate that over 3 million farmers nationwide have prepared over 9 million Intwasa/Pfumvudza plots on more than 600 000 hectares for this farming season.
Matabeleland South’s target for the summer cropping season is 500 000 plots. In addition to their usual plots, farmers were encouraged to allocate two plots specifically for fodder production.
Farmers in the province focus on drought-tolerant traditional grains and short-season crop varieties to maximise yields.
In an interview, Agricultural and Rural Development Advisory Services (Ardas) Matabeleland South provincial director, Mrs Shupikai Sibanda, expressed satisfaction with the planting phase.
“Over 75 percent of the crop targets have been planted. Crops are in their early vegetative stage, and top dressing is being applied to the early crop. The remaining 25 percent is for the bean crop and fodder,” she said.
A farmer from Bulilima District, Mr Hlonipani Nleya shared his optimism for the season.
“Last year was a bad season for us farmers as we harvested almost nothing due to the drought. This year, we worked hard on the Intwasa plots as advised by Ardas officials, and the rains have been consistent.
“I planted mainly maize, and with the regular rains, I am confident we will harvest this year,” he said.
Nationally, the Government aims to produce over 3,2 million tonnes of cereals this season to ensure food security. So far, over 1,4 million hectares have been planted with maize, 322 606 hectares with traditional grains, and 85 000 hectares with tobacco.
The success of initiatives such as Pfumvudza/Intwasa, the National Enhanced Agriculture Productivity Scheme, and support from the private sector and the Agricultural and Rural Development Authority (Arda) is expected to be instrumental in achieving this target.
Additionally, the distribution of inputs, including seed and fertiliser, has improved significantly.
To date, 64 percent of the targeted basal dressing fertiliser and 120 percent of the initially targeted maize seed have been delivered to Grain Marketing Board depots.
The promising progress has rekindled hope among farmers for a bountiful harvest in the 2024/25 farming season. — @mthabisi_mthire
