Story by Aifheli Mudau
THE government’s commitment to national food security is fast becoming a reality, with farmers at Phaphamani Irrigation Scheme in Nyamandlovu anticipating output of 100 tonnes from their 15-hectare wheat crop.
This comes after the establishment of new irrigation schemes and revamping of old ones, which has set the country on the path to reclaim its status as the breadbasket of Southern Africa.
“We used to face some difficulties working on this land before the government and other partners intervened with resources and now we are better,” a farmer noted.
“The assistance we are getting is helping us get a bumper harvest and we appreciate that our wheat is impressing,” another added.
Development partners have pledged to continue working with the government to ensure communities are food secure.
“We are working together so that we make sure our communities are food secure,” AFC Land and Development Bank’s managing director, Mrs Prisilla Munyeza said.
“We are grateful to work with the Government of Zimbabwe to avoid hunger in our communities,” Food and Agriculture Organisation Sub-regional Coordinator, Dr Patrice Talla stated.
The government remains committed to empowering rural communities.
“Zimbabwe is on the right path to surpass its target of 600 000 tonnes in wheat harvesting, and all this is due to our working together with other partners,” Director Business Development in the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, Abraham Mashumba noted.
Irrigation schemes have been identified as key in attaining food self-sufficiency, beginning at household level.
