Zim set to reclaim bread basket status
ZIMBABWE is set to reclaim its status as the bread basket of Africa through the on-going Command Agriculture programme, Nyanga South Member of the National Assembly, Cde Supa Mandiwanzira has said.
Addressing Agriculture Extension officers at a field day in Tombo 2, in Nyanga recently, Cde Mandiwanzira, said the programme would possibly see Zimbabwe ending up exporting maize to other countries.
He said the Vice President, Cde Emmerson Mnangagwa was assigned by President Mugabe to make sure that the programme was a success. The programme will surpass the three-year target and go beyond that. It will be export targeted and demand driven.
“The programme will take us to another level. What Command Agriculture has done with maize makes it possible that we will end up assisting some in Kenya, Tanzania among other Eastern countries. Through the programme, we intend to reclaim the bread basket status as a country since the programme has shown that it is a success story,” he said. Cde Mandiwanzira said he had already commenced identifying markets for farmers of different crops such as beans.
The MP, who is also the Minister for Information Communication and Technology, Postal and Courier Services, handed over a motorbike and more than 20 bicycles to the most successful Agritex officers in the district who worked hard to ensure the success of the programme.“We would like to thank Agriculture Extension officers for the tremendous job they are doing. We have brought bicycles and the motorbike for your efficiency and to motivate you to continue working hard,” he added. Agritex officer, Richard Nyajeka won the overall best. “I am elated. I feel inspired to work even harder. Our success comes out of working together. This is a result of team work. It is the whole community that has won,” said Nyajeka. Lovemore Tembo, a veterinary officer in the area, said Cde Mandiwanzira’s gesture came at a time when transport woes were hampering the smooth flow of progress for the officers.