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Trust Freddy

Herald Correspondent

AT least 200 000 Harare farmers are set to benefit from the 2024/25 Provincial Presidential Agricultural Input (Pfumvudza/Intwasa) Scheme meant to ensure food security for families across the country including those in urban areas.

Speaking at the official launch in the capital city yesterday, Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Harare Metropolitan Province, Charles Tavengwa said 80 percent of the targeted farmers had been trained and were set to receive inputs.

“Harare has a target of 200 000 beneficiaries translating to 12 480 ha, “ Minister Tavengwa said.

“I am informed that the Pfumvudza package is tailor made in such a way that each household will not only be food secure for the whole year but also meets the nutritional requirement.

“I encourage every farmer to work closely with their local Agricultural and Rural Development Assistance Services (ARDAS) officers to know all the agricultural initiatives that are being lined up by our Government.”

Since its inception in the year 2020/21 agricultural season, Minister Tavengwa said the Pfumvudza/Intwasa programme has played a pivotal role in promoting climate-smart agricultural practices.

“This initiative is part of our broader agenda to drive inclusive development, creating wealth and economic opportunities for all Zimbabweans by leaving no one and no place behind.

“Emerging from the worst drought in 43 years, we are optimistic about the upcoming rainfall season. The lesson from last year’s El Niño-induced drought has underscored the importance of climate-proofing measures at both household and national levels by accelerating irrigation development and expanding the Pfumvudza/Intwasa programme.”

Farmers in Epworth commended the Government for introducing the scheme.

Ms Munakisai Gavasi from Ward 4, Domboramwari, hailed the Second Republic saying the initiative will enhance food self-sufficiency and alleviate poverty.

“I am deeply grateful to the Government. With the inputs I received today, I have learned I can harvest up to a tonne of maize, ensuring sustenance for my large family.”

Another farmer Mr Tonderai Madzivanzira also expressed his appreciation for the Presidential Agricultural Input Scheme.

“I thank President Mnangagwa for introducing Pfumvudza.

“I received maize seed, fertilizer, and rape (vegetable) seeds.

“We are praying for our leaders’ protection and good rains.”

Another farmer Mr Jealous Gomo added: “I initially thought it was impossible, but today I am thrilled to be among the first beneficiaries of this initiative.

“Having struggled to purchase inputs in the past, I am relieved to have everything I need this year. All we need now is adequate rainfall.”

This year, the initiative has a national target of 3,5 million beneficiaries, covering 1,8 million households and approximately 9,5 million plots nationwide.

The programme dovetails with the NDS1 which seeks to improve food self-sufficiency and to restore the country’s regional breadbasket  status.