Staff Reporter
Communal farmers in Matabeleland South Province have received a significant boost ahead of the upcoming summer cropping season, thanks to the Governments provision of tractors for tillage services through the Rural Infrastructure Development Agency (RIDA).
This initiative aims to tackle the challenges of limited draught power, which have been exacerbated by the recent El Niño-induced drought.
In response, Government has provided 28 tractors to RIDA to offer tillage services, a much-needed intervention for the farming communities.
In an interview with this publication, Acting Provincial Director of RIDA, Mr Joseph Dube, expressed his gratitude for the initiative, stating, “We are grateful to the government for availing tractors, which we hope to use for tillage services, given that much of our draught power in the province is in bad shape due to the El Niño-induced drought. We are hoping to have at least three tractors in each district to support this vital work.”
Director for Infrastructure under the Matabeleland South Provincial Affairs and Devolution Mr Daniel Njowa, highlighted with forecasts from the Meteorological Services Department indicating normal to above-normal rainfall for the upcoming season availability of tractors is expected to significantly boost the amount of land that can be cultivated.
“These tractors represent hope and the promise that the Second Republic made to the people of Zimbabwe. They will ensure that communities have reliable tillage services and even trafficable roads. This will go a long way in alleviating poverty and supporting sustainable agriculture. This development promises to improve agricultural productivity and food security across the region,” said Njowa.
The 28 tractors allocated to Matabeleland South are part of a broader initiative where the government procured agricultural machinery from Belarus. The program aims to enhance mechanization and support farmers across Zimbabwe, ensuring that the country moves toward agricultural self-sufficiency.
This timely intervention highlights the government’s commitment to empowering rural communities by providing essential resources. With the availability of modern farming equipment, communal farmers are better positioned to improve crop yields, generate income, and ultimately enhance their quality of life.
