Story by Lisa Masuku
OVER 2000 people who benefited from the Intwasa Presidential Inputs Scheme in Bulawayo’s Nketa constituency this Thursday have applauded the government for empowering them with seed maize, saying it will play a key role in boosting food security.
With the government on a drive to promote food security at household level and nationwide, elderly people who benefited were ecstatic, with the country having started to receive rains for them to plant.
“We are going to start digging our holes now that we have the seeds,” said a Nketa elderly person
Another said, “These seeds will not only help us feed our families but we will be able to sell some of our produce.”
Youths said the seed maize is also a starting point for their small farming ventures to help keep them busy and off the streets.
“You know most of us are not working, so these seeds will help ensure that as young people, we use our hands to fend for ourselves,” said a youth.
The newly elected National Assembly members for Nketa and Bulawayo South constituencies, Honourable Albert Mavhunga and Honourable Raj Modi said the distribution of the Presidential Inputs is part of government efforts to ensure vulnerable groups are not left behind in the government’s drive to promote food security.
“The maize seeds will help boost food security,” said Honourable Mavhunga.
Honourable Modi said, “This will ensure that vulnerable groups are able to fend for themselves.”
Every farmer is being urged to embrace the principles of Pfumvunza/Intwasa of mulching to conserve moisture since the country anticipates normal to below-normal rainfall this summer cropping season.
