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Emmah Chinyamutangira Manicaland Correspondent
Potato production in Manicaland province could decline as most producers in Chimanimani are failing to plant the winter crop since their plots and farms were affected by Cyclone Idai-induced floods. Manicaland produces an average of 813 000 tonnes of potatoes every season and the province had begun increasing production in Chimanimani before the cyclone.

Agritex extension officer Mr Douglas Nzarayebani said preparations for potato production were in progress, but a large number of farmers in Chimanimani had not started preparing.

“Most potato farmers in Chimanimani are not planting potatoes this winter cropping season after their land was swept away by the cyclone. We had recorded an increase in the number of farmers who wanted to take up potato farming in Chimanimani. So far, less than 60 hectares have been planted under potato in Chimanimani,” he said.

He said Nyanga district would, however, continue increasing production with 1 600 hectares already under the cash crop.
“Nyanga district is increasing levels of potato farming and an average of 1 600 hectares has been planted in the area.

“But there is need for farmers to access inputs to ensure potato production continues to contribute meaningfully to the economy,” he added.

Meanwhile, Mr Nzarayebani said pineapple growers in the province were also facing challenges in accessing good markets.
He expressed hope that farmers would be able to sell their produce to foreign markets.

“Pineapples have the potential to increase production and penetrate international market, but the biggest challenge that the growers are facing is poor marketing.

“Most farmers in Manicaland are growing for consumption and the local market, some have even reduced their hecterage due to poor marketing,” he said.