Story by Fairstars Mukungurutse
Urban farmers in Harare are optimistic of recording a good harvest following the heavy rains currently being received across the country.
Slowly evolving into a vibrant urban agriculture ecosystem, nearly every household in Harare has its own small plot or back yard garden where a variety of crops are grown for consumption and profit.
While most crops had suffered severe moisture stress following a prolonged dry spell characterized by high temperatures, the rainfall currently being received across the country has brought some relief to farmers as most crops have been rejuvenated.
“We are happy the rains are back, we had lost hope of getting something because the heat wave was too much. Now we are expecting a bumper harvest,” said a farmer who spoke to the ZBC News.
Another said, “Today we are weeding our crops as you know the soil was dry and we couldn’t do it. So we are taking advantage of the moisture and we expect a good harvest.”
“The rains have brought about peace of mind to us the elderly because now we know we are going to have enough food to feed all the grandchildren,” added another elderly farmer.
Government has also incorporated urban farmers in its agricultural input support schemes including the Pfumvudza/Intwasa concept so as to boost household food self-sufficiency.
