Zimpapers Logo

Tawanda Mangoma in Chiredzi
The Zimbabwe Farmers Union (ZFU) has challenged farmers in the arid Chiredzi and Mwenezi Districts to take advantage of the recent heavy rains to plant small grains and early maturing maize varieties.

The two districts traditionally receive poor rains, but are renowned for fertile soils. ZFU Masvingo regional manager Mr Jeremiah Chimwanda yesterday said rains that have been falling across most parts of the province have brought relief to farmers in areas such as Chikombedzi and Malipati in southern Chiredzi.

Farmers in those areas had failed to plant crops owing to lack of rains.

“Farmers in Chiredzi and Mwenezi have been behind in terms of planting due to the late coming of rainfall in those areas. From our records, we discovered that farmers, particularly in areas such as Chikombedzi and Malipati, were still to plant due to poor rains, but we are happy that they are now busy working in their fields,” said Mr Chimwanda.