Record-breaking 9 million Pfumvudza/Intwasa plots target attained

Judith Phiri, Business Reporter 

AS planting for 2024/2025 summer cropping season intensifies, the nation has exceeded its Pfumvudza/Intwasa plots target, reaching 9.7 million plots, 107 percent of the initial goal of nine million.

Over 3.5 million households have benefitted under the Pfumvudza/Intwasa Programme this summer cropping season, with prospects high for a good harvest after predictions of normal to above normal rains.

Farmers across the country are optimistic about the current season, especially given predictions of normal to above-normal rainfall. The early distribution of inputs, coupled with favourable weather forecasts, has created an environment conducive to increased agricultural productivity.

Giving an update on the summer cropping season, Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development Deputy Minister, Vangelis Haritatos said the achievement in exceeding the Pfumvudza/Intwasa plots target underscores the commitment of farmers to the country’s agricultural transformation and ensures progress toward food security.

He said: “Also inputs distribution is proceeding smoothly, laying the foundation for a successful farming season. 

“Farmers relying on rain-fed agriculture are advised to plant short to medium-term maize seed varieties, while those with irrigation should focus on medium to long-term varieties to optimise yields.”

The Deputy Minister said guidance on planting traditional grains will be provided in due course, reinforcing the nation’s agricultural strategy.

The Government aims to achieve a cereal production target of over 3,2 million tonnes, significantly exceeding the approximately 750 000 metric tonnes harvested during the 2023/2024 season, in a bid to enhance food security.

Meanwhile, the Ministry said the rainfall outlook for the summer 2024/25 cropping season pointed to normal to above normal rains in the November, December and January period and urged farmers to take advantage of this.

“Agro-ecological input acquisition, land preparation must be on point to embrace continuous rains in November, December and January, which is predicted to receive normal to above normal rains,” the Ministry said.

“It is crucial that we employ water conservation technologies, such as Pfumvudza, and adhere to planting during the ideal planting timeframe,” it said.

Farmers that have received at least 20mm of rainfall in three consecutive days have also been encouraged to start planting. Farmers have also been encouraged to consider the use of pre-emergence herbicides at planting for early weed control.

“The chance of hailstorms and lightning is very high. Hence, both livestock and tobacco farmers are encouraged to ensure the protection of livelihoods,” said the Ministry. 

To date, it said, a total of 79 traps have been set in all districts of Mashonaland Central, Mashonaland East and Manicaland provinces to control pests, adding that there was no record of armyworm so far across the country.