Staff Report
Zimbabwe is on track to meet its agricultural production targets for the 2024/2025 season, according to the Permanent Secretary for the ministry of lands, agriculture, fisheries, and rural resettlement, Prof. Obert Jiri.
Speaking during Face the Nation programme on ZBC TV yesterday, Prof. Jiri assured the nation that the country would achieve its set targets in maize, traditional grains, tobacco, and sunflower production, despite some challenges, particularly with tobacco due to shifting seasons.
He said that Government had planned for 18 million hectares of maize, 60 000 hectares of traditional grains, 140 000 hectares of tobacco, and 90 000 hectares of sunflower for this season.
“We are confident that we will hit our targets for the 2024/2025 season. We are seeing good progress, particularly in maize and traditional grains, while tobacco has faced some challenges due to changing seasonal patterns,” said Prof. Jiri.
Prof. Jiri also stressed the need for farmers to adopt conservative farming practices to address the impact of climate change.
The Ministry has encouraged the use of shorter-season varieties of crops to adapt to the late start of the agricultural season.
“We have realised the effects of climate change, and farmers must adapt. The seasons have shifted, and we need to think and behave differently. Shorter-season varieties are key to better results,” he explained.
The Permanent Secretary said that one of the most successful methods being promoted is the Pfumvudza conservation farming technique.
According to Prof. Jiri, farmers who adopt this approach have reported higher yields due to its resilience to climate variability.
“Pfumvudza has proven to be an effective and resilient farming method that helps farmers respond to climate change on a household level,” Prof.Jiri added.
Prof. Jiri also announced that Government was opening the doors for all farmers with offer letters to secure title deeds for their land.
This move is seen as a significant step in unlocking the value of the country’s agricultural sector.
“We applaud His Excellency President Emmerson Mnangagwa for making this decision. Title deeds will empower farmers to secure loans from banks and increase productivity,” said Prof. Jiri.
He added that introduction of title deeds is expected to enhance land security and facilitate access to financing, which will be crucial for boosting agricultural productivity in Zimbabwe.
As the 2024/2025 season progresses, Government remains committed to supporting farmers and ensuring the country achieves its agricultural goals.
