Story by Tamuka Charakupa
THE government says it will continue to support productive farming ventures, amid growing calls for the full utilisation of land to guarantee food security.
Government’s call for collective efforts towards ensuring food security in the country is on the right track on the back of increased youth participation in agricultural ventures.
Chegutu’s Mt Carmel farm being run by Presidential Investment Advisor, Dr Paul Tungwarara is a shining example of full land utilisation after integrating crop production with livestock and aquaculture.
The farm boasts of at least 130 hectares under maize crop, a robust livestock programme comprising 700 cattle and over 300 Boer goats and a thriving fish production with over 50 000 tilapia fish.
“I have taken a deliberate stance to transform this farm into a successful multi-million farming venture. President Emmerson Mnangagwa is saying that the country is built by its people and we, as the youths have a role to play in making the country food secure. Let us all channel our investments into developing the country through exploring opportunities, especially in the agricultural sector,” Dr Tungwarara said.
Mashonaland West Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Marian Chombo who toured the farm this Wednesday is impressed by production levels at the farm.
“The Second Republic is promoting local investments in line with Vision 2030. I am impressed that every inch of this land is being utilised. This is one of the old farms which were lying idle, but now we are witnessing massive production levels, integrated farming coupled with livestock and fish production. This is the direction which the government is calling for. Our youths should take a leading role in ensuring that the country is food secure.”
Deputy-Director for Resettlement in the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, Mr Nyasha Dendere said the Land Tenure Implementation Programme launched by government will bolster the land ownership model, unlock huge amounts of finance, spur economic growth and enhance productivity.
“The government is implementing the Land Tenure Programme to ensure that there is security of land ownership. Secondly, there is a programme for joint ventures to ensure that those with underutilised land can partner with investors to spur production and government is carrying out a down-sizing programme to ensure that land owners are only left with land where they can operate. These are all efforts meant to promote production in the country,” he said.
Meanwhile, the country is making strides in implementing the Agricultural Food Systems and Rural Transformation Strategy to ensure the attainment of food and nutritional security.
