Staff Reporter

The Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development has launched the 11 tonne plus maize competition at Agriculture Research Trust (ART) farm in Harare today, a development that would enhance maize production in the country.

Speaking during the launch, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, Dr John Bhasera said that the launch was meant to acknowledge efforts by local farmers in contributing to national food security in the country.

“This launch is meant to recognize the efforts by our farmers to boost the national food security and restore the country`s status as the breadbasket of Southern Africa. The net effect and ultimate goal of this effort is to increase both production and productivity and ultimately achieve national security. When farmers compete, yields compete upwards and that is the hallmark of Agricultural Transformation. A 10 percent increase in agricultural productivity result in seven percent reduction in poverty, hence Governments thrust in up scaling productivity levels across the several sub-sectors of the crop production sector,” said Dr Bhasera.

Dr Bhasera indicated that the competition would recognize the hard work farmers have put through adoption of good agronomic practices and high-level crop management during this season. He further said that the adoption of good agricultural practices was critical so as to unlock genetic potential from seed varieties and breeds.

Dr Bhasera informed farmers that his Ministry had adopted the motto of “Going for Growth” highlighting that same would ensure that the agriculture sector continues in this upward trajectory.

Meanwhile, Government has announced the maize pre-planting producer price of US$335 to stimulate production and allow forward planning. The 11 ton plus competition was initiated by private sector players and the Government facilitated it. These private sector players comprise of seed and fertilizer companies, banks and financial services institutions.

The launch of the 11 tonne plus competition was in line with the country`s Vision 2030 of improving productivity per unit area and to ensure that no land is left under-utilized.