Story by ZBC Reporter
A 70-year-old farmer in Zvishavane is emerging as a success story of climate-smart agriculture after embracing the Pfumvudza/Intwasa Programme, with expectations of a bumper harvest this season.
Titus Mhlanga from Mazvihwa has adopted conservation agriculture techniques promoted under the programme, positioning himself for improved yields despite climate-related challenges.
The elderly farmer has established six plots covering six hectares and is projecting yields of at least five tonnes per hectare, a development expected to boost household income while contributing to national food security.
“Through their dedicated support and extensive training from Agritex officers, we have been instrumental in promoting the uptake of conservation agriculture. I have managed to perfect the art of these techniques,” he said.
Other farmers in the district are also reporting positive outcomes from the programme.
“We have been preparing well for this development, and we are happy with what we have done through this Pfumvudza initiative. I encourage other farmers to venture into small grains farming and practice the Pfumvudza Intwasa concept. This concept has proven to be a game changer in the face of climate change, and we are in support of it,” said farmer Mary Nkomo.
Authorities have urged farmers to continue adopting resilient agricultural systems to mitigate the effects of climate change.
“As a country, we need to produce what is sufficient for the country so that next time, we produce surplus for export. This is why the government introduced many programmes like Pfumvudza and Command Agriculture. We also need women to take leading roles in feeding the nation,” said Zvishavane-Runde legislator Freddy Moyo.
The Pfumvudza/Intwasa Programme, introduced under the Second Republic, continues to drive climate-proof agriculture, with growing enthusiasm among farmers across Midlands Province.
