Story by Tamuka Charakupa
Government has commended farmers in Mashonaland West Province for embracing diversified farming models that are strengthening national food security and contributing to strategic grain reserves.
During a tour of Mount Camel Farm in Chegutu on Saturday, the Minister of Agriculture, Mechanisation and Irrigation Development, Anxious Masuka, praised the farm’s integrated production systems and irrigation-driven operations.
Mount Camel Farm has emerged as a model of mixed farming, with operations spanning crop production, livestock, poultry and fisheries.
Agronomist Mr Shama Chizororo said the farm currently has 150 hectares under maize, 7.5 hectares of sugar beans, and a herd of 993 cattle, alongside goats, sheep, a piggery section, 10 000 broiler chickens and a fisheries project.
“Turning to wheat production, we intend to plant 100 hectares, and so far 60 hectares have already been planted,” he said.
Farm owner Paul Tungwarara said the farm’s success demonstrates the capacity of black farmers to drive agricultural growth and national development.
“What we are witnessing is proof that black farmers are fully capable of driving agricultural production and contributing meaningfully to national development. The results being achieved here are a reflection of commitment, hard work and the opportunities created through government support mechanisms,” he said.
He said the farm draws inspiration from the national mantra, “Nyika Inovakwa Nevene Vayo/Ilizwe Lakhiwa Ngabanikazi Balo,” adding that agricultural diversification and modern farming methods are critical to economic growth and food security.
Dr Masuka said he was impressed by the farm’s irrigation infrastructure and productivity levels.
“I was very pleased to tour the farm and witness the de-risking and diversification initiatives being undertaken here. The farm has 200 hectares under irrigation, very good maize crops with projected yields above eight to nine tonnes per hectare, and an impressive potato crop,” he said.
He added that the farmer had demonstrated a strong commitment to winter wheat production despite delays caused by the need to clear standing maize crops.
Meanwhile, Dr Masuka revealed that Government is modernising Grain Marketing Board depots to international standards as part of efforts to improve grain handling systems and establish one-stop-shop services for farmers.
