Mashonaland Central has surpassed its wheat production targets for the current season, with farmers now expediting harvesting efforts ahead of the anticipated summer rains. The province has not only exceeded its planting goals but is also achieving impressive yields, a success attributed to a combination of effective resource management and the adoption of modern agricultural practices.
The province planted a total of 27,910 hectares of wheat, exceeding the initial target of 27,000 hectares. According to the acting ARDAS Director, Mr. Chitokomere, approximately 60% of the crop, equivalent to 16,650 hectares, has already been harvested. The yield has been a noteworthy 6 tonnes per hectare, a significant achievement for the region. Mr. Chitokomere credited the success to the diligent efforts of the Provincial Minister’s Office and the Joint Operations Command (JOC) teams in ensuring a stable water supply by cracking down on illegal mining activities along riverbanks, which often disrupt water flow.
With the rainy season approaching, farmers are being urged to complete their harvesting operations by the end of October to prevent crop damage. In a move towards sustainable agriculture, Mr. Chitokomere has encouraged farmers to convert wheat stover into hay bales for livestock feed rather than burning it. This practice not only provides essential feed for livestock but also contributes to better soil health.
The agricultural success in Mashonaland Central is not limited to wheat. Tobacco cultivation is also on the rise, with 3,258 hectares transplanted so far, a slight increase from last year's 3,201 hectares. This growth is largely driven by the favorable prices from the previous season, encouraging more farmers to venture into tobacco farming. In preparation for the summer season, the province is making significant headway with the Pfumvudza program, having already prepared over 1.3 million plots out of a target of 1.6 million.
Mr. Chitokomere emphasized that Pfumvudza is more than just a government program; it is a "smart farming method" designed to enhance agricultural productivity and build resilience against climate change. The program promotes conservation agriculture techniques, which lead to higher yields even with low rainfall. The distribution of agricultural inputs for the summer season has already commenced across various depots.
The impressive wheat harvest in Mashonaland Central, coupled with the proactive preparations for the summer season, paints a positive picture for the province's agricultural sector. The successful implementation of programs like Pfumvudza and the effective management of resources are key drivers of this success, ensuring food security and economic stability for the region. The focus on sustainable practices, such as using wheat stover for livestock feed, further highlights a commitment to long-term agricultural prosperity.
