Story by Theophilus Chuma
GOVERNMENT-LED smart agriculture initiatives are delivering significant food security gains in Mberengwa District and Bulilima District, following impressive harvests in maize and traditional grains.
Recent rains have transformed the landscape in Mberengwa, leaving behind lush green fields that signal a successful farming season in a region typically characterised by low and erratic rainfall.
Despite falling within ecological regions four and five, communities are now experiencing improved yields, driven by climate-smart farming practices.
Smallholder farmer Mrs Piwai Zhou said access to mechanised equipment under the Pfumvudza programme has significantly reduced labour and improved productivity.
“I am very grateful to the government for giving us mechanised equipment to support the Pfumvudza programme. Previously, it would take almost a week or more to just work on the holes before planting, but now it is just about an hour, and I am done. Everything has been made so simple and fast,” she said.
Mrs Zhou is among thousands of beneficiaries of the Adaptation Fund, which aims to build resilience among small-scale farmers while preparing them for commercialisation.
Similar successes are being recorded in Bulilima, where farmers are now producing surplus yields for both consumption and income generation.
“I am now producing enough traditional grains for my family, the surplus I am taking to the market and getting enough money to pay for school fees,” said Mrs Sibusisiwe Mpofu.
Bulilima Agritex Officer Mr Bhekimuzi Mpofu said the programme is unlocking the potential of rural farmers.
“This mechanised programme has really unlocked the potential of the farmers. We are seeing a huge impact of the programme because many are now embracing the concept after realising how it is better preparing communities against climate change,” he said.
District Business Agriculture Officer, Mr Jonathan Makaranga highlighted ongoing training efforts.
“We are managing to train farmers in smart agriculture technologies for them to become resilient to climate change. We are moving with the mantra of leaving no place and no one behind,” he said.
The Adaptation Fund has supported over 2 000 small-scale farmers across three provinces, contributing to improved livelihoods and national food security.
President Dr Emmerson Mnangagwa said agriculture remains central to economic development under the National Development Strategy 2.
“Riding on the unprecedented gains recorded in agriculture, particularly in maize, wheat and tobacco, the NDS2 will see us ring fence our national food and security. We foresee this to be achieved through increased productivity, modern storage infrastructure and enhanced climate resilience,” he said.
