Story by John Nhandara
FARMERS have so far planted 1,6 million hectares of maize out of the targeted 1,8 million hectares as government encourages farmers to continue planting early maturity crops.
The government is encouraging farmers to continue planting early maturity varieties, with the current rains being witnessed across the country expected to continue for the next two weeks.
Giving an update on the 2024/2025 summer cropping season, Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development Permanent Secretary, Professor Obert Jiri revealed farmers have already planted 1,6 million hectares of maize and 400 000 hectares of traditional grains.
“We are targeting 1,8 million hectares of maize, and we are now hovering around 1,6 million. For traditional grains, we are targeting 500 000, and we are now on 400 000. We encourage farmers to keep on planting,” he said.
Professor Jiri said crops planted early were in a good state, with farmers now concentrating on fertiliser application.
“We will see these rains continue for the next two weeks up to the 18th. We have seen farmers responding very well, with many having a good crop and now focusing on fertiliser application and other agronomic practices. We are encouraging farmers to keep on planting, especially for regions four and five. Farmers can still plant early maize varieties.”
The country is expecting a good harvest this season after projections of normal to above normal rainfall.
