Story by Tamuka Charakupa
GOVERNMENT has rolled out a nationwide crop, livestock and fisheries assessment exercise as it moves to establish the true status of agricultural production during the current summer cropping season and guide food security planning.
The Crop, Livestock and Fisheries Assessment (CLAFA) exercise is already underway across all provinces, with preliminary indications pointing to improved crop performance, largely attributed to favourable rainfall patterns received so far.
At Brompton Farm in Ngezi, Mashonaland West Province, green and healthy crops are providing early signs of a promising season, prompting government officials to move on the ground to verify production levels under the CLAFA programme.
“This season has been quite encouraging. We planned early, we planted within the recommended planting window, and we ensured that land preparation was done properly. Government support, particularly on extension services and availability of inputs, has played a key role. With the rains we have received, the crop is looking healthy, and if conditions remain the same, we are optimistic of a very good harvest,” Brompton Farm Manager, Mr Douglas Follwell said.
Local farmers are also expressing satisfaction with the state of their crops.
“As farmers under the Pfumvudza/Intwasa programme, we have benefitted a lot. The rains have been favourable, and most farmers planted on time. What we are now appealing for is the urgent distribution of top dressing fertiliser so that we can fully realise the potential of this season. If that support comes on time, food security at household and district level will be guaranteed,” Mhondoro-Ngezi RDC Chairperson, Cde Ephraem Chengeta noted.
Government has urged commercial farmers and agro-dealers to cooperate fully with assessment teams by providing accurate production data, saying reliable statistics are critical for informed policy planning.
A call was also made for the sector to take advantage of the suspension of duty on fertiliser imports to ensure adequate supply on the market.
“The CLAFA exercise is important because it gives us an accurate picture of what is happening on the ground. From what we have seen so far, the crops are in good condition due to positive rains. This assessment will help the government plan better, ensure food security and guide any necessary interventions where support may be required,” the Deputy Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, Honourable Vangelis Haritatos stated.
“The suspension of duty on fertiliser importation is an opportunity for the private sector to complement government efforts. We expect agro-dealers to respond positively and ensure that fertiliser is readily available across the country so that farmers can meet crop nutrient requirements and maximise yields,” Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, Professor Obert Jiri added.
Upon completion, the CLAFA process will inform national food balance sheets and shape strategies aimed at sustaining agricultural productivity and economic growth.
