By Marshia Mutambi
MARONDERA– Mashonaland East Province has taken a significant step towards achieving food security and sustainable agricultural development through the Pfumvudza/Intwasa programme.
A field day held recently in Goromonzi district’s Ward 8 at Tendai Mupariwa’s farm was a demonstration of the province’s commitment to promoting conservation agriculture.
Addressing farmers and other stakeholders at the field day, Goromonzi District Development Coordinator (DDC) Beauty Dube said she was happy with the progress made in promoting conservation agriculture in the province, particularly in Goromonzi District.
“This is a clear indication that our farmers are committed to adopting sustainable agricultural practices. The concept of conservation agriculture has gained significant traction in the province, with the rate of adoption increasing rapidly,” she said.
The programme is being fully implemented and adhered to in all districts in the province.
“This achievement resonates with President Mnangagwa’s vision to end hunger by 2030. We are proud to be part of this vision and will continue to work tirelessly to promote sustainable agricultural practices in our province. Seed companies and other stakeholders in the agriculture sector must always engage with farmers, learn from their experiences, and share their expertise.
“If we closely work together, we strengthen and promote sustainable agricultural development. By sharing knowledge and expertise, we can achieve a more food-secure future for our province and country,” Dube added.
The event was a testament to the province’s commitment to supporting sustainable agricultural practices and improving livelihoods and the host farmers were commended for their pioneering efforts in adopting conservation agriculture and recruiting other farmers to follow suit.
Recently, the Government availed tablets to agriculture extension workers. Dube said the initiative had empowered staff to disseminate information more effectively to farmers.
“We are grateful for the Government’s support. These tablets are enabling our staff to provide better services to our farmers, Ultimately, this will lead to improved agricultural productivity and food security,” Dube said.
Goromonzi district is one of the largest contributors to the provincial and national Gross Domestic Product (GDP) through agriculture, mining, and tourism. The district surpassed its summer cropping targets for the 2024/25 season.
Domboshava, a horticulture hub, produces an average of 40kg per hectare and many farmers in the district sell their produce at Mbare Musika in the capital.
“We are proud of our achievements in Goromonzi District. Our farmers have worked hard to adopt sustainable agricultural practices, which has led to improved productivity and food security. We will continue to support our farmers to ensure that they continue to thrive,” she said.
Agriculture and Rural Development Advisory Services (ARDAS) acting chief director Leonard Munamati emphasized the need by farmers to combat drought and poor harvests using organic-based fertilizers.
He said: “We need to adopt new technologies that promote sustainable agricultural practices. Organic-based fertilizers are one such technology that can help us combat drought and poor harvests.” he said.
Acting ARDAS director in Mashonaland East, Caristo Masiwa urged farmers to embrace new technologies, such as organic-based fertilizers, crops, microelectronics, and livestock nutrition.
“We encourage our farmers to adopt new technologies that promote sustainable agricultural practices. By doing so, they will improve their productivity, reduce their environmental footprint, and contribute to the country’s food security,” Masiwa said.
