ZFU launches tillage programme

ZIMBABWE Farmers Union (ZFU) has launched a tillage programme to support farmers with tractors, ploughs, planters and disk harrows to enhance their agricultural activities ahead of the next farming season.

ZFU chairman Mr Abdul Nyathi said the programme is driven by the need to be self-sufficient as farmers.

“The union has launched an ambitious programme to support farmers with critical implements following the realisation that most farmers face mechanisation challenges. We have so far purchased five tractors which will be hired out to farmers for tillage purposes.”

He said the aim is to have 10 tractors per province so that more farmers can benefit from the programme. “This is just the starting point, but all provinces and districts will benefit. While we applaud Government support, we want all farmers to be self-sufficient as we continue to improve agri-business.”

Mr Nyathi expressed gratitude to the Government for the early distribution of inputs for Command Agriculture and the Presidential Inputs Support Scheme.

“Our farmers are now at the height of land preparation and we are grateful as most of us have benefited from the various inputs support programmes. We are now waiting for the rains.

Meanwhile, Seed-co head of agronomy Mr John Bhasera urged the farmers to plant their crops early and to choose seed varieties that are suitable for their areas.

“The Meteorological Department has issued the seasonal forecast and we urge you to follow the rainfall forecast religiously.

“We are expecting El-Nino conditions to prevail in the coming season, hence you need to use early maturity varieties.”