by Christopher Makaza

Cotton growers across the country have expressed relief following the early distribution of cotton inputs under the Presidential Input Support Scheme.

In an interview with Harare Post, Cotton Producers and Marketers Association National Chairman, Stewart Mubonderi revealed that they have already started receiving inputs which has given them apple time for land preparation and other logistics. He said it was a significant improvement to last year where cotton farmers received inputs as late as January.

 “We are pleased as an association that farmers have already started receiving cotton inputs, not only us but the farmers as well. Farmers have already started tilling their land and making other necessary preparations. Each household will receive two bags of compound L and top dressing fertiliser, 20kg of cotton seed, all the needed chemicals as well as Napsack sprays,” he said.

“COTCO tractors will also be available across the country to assist farmers in tilling their land. About 50000ha will be tilled for free out of the targeted 400 000ha and only vulnerable families will benefit. This is done to motivate farmers to increase hectarage. Agritex officers will also be on the ground to assist farmers with good agronomic practices,” he added.

About 150 000 new farmers have expressed interest to grow the white gold this 2018/2019 farming season. The cotton industry is witnessing an overwhelming response in the registration of new cotton farmers as Government continues to avail free cotton inputs under the Presidential Input Support Scheme.