Story by Tendai Munengwa
GOVERNMENT has implored farmers to take advantage of the current rains to start planting, with those yet to receive rains being advised to practice dry planting.
The rains falling in various parts of the country signify the beginning of the summer cropping season, with farmers who received more than 30 millilitres being urged to plant while those who are yet to receive rains should apply dry planting methods.
The Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development’s Permanent Secretary, Prof Obert Jiri said, “In some areas, we have already received enough rains to plant and farmers should move in to plant. We encourage the farmers who are in doubt to liaise with extension officers in their respective areas to get advice but more so, farmers should also apply dry planting.”
According to weather forecasts, more rains are expected to start mid-next week.
“With such predictions, farmers who are preparing their land must expedite their farming activities, so that they plant on time,” he added.
Over 3.5 million households have benefited under the Pfumvudza/Intwasa Programme this summer cropping season, with prospects high for a good harvest after predictions of normal to above normal rains.
