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Sukoluhle Ndlovu Midlands Correspondent
Government has said the country’s water bodies have enough water to sustain the targeted 75 000 hectares to be put under wheat this winter season.

Lands and Agriculture Deputy Minister Vangelis Haritatos said if met, the target will significantly reduce wheat shortages in the country.

“There is enough water in the country’s dams and rivers to fully sustain the farming of wheat this winter season.

“We understand that most farmers were panicking following erratic rains received this year, but they should not panic because there is enough water to sustain their farming,” he said.

This year, we have engaged private partners to increase wheat production in the country.

Deputy Minister Haritatos said winter wheat farming would be a success as there were enough inputs.

“This will be a very exciting season because we are fully prepared and we have enough inputs.

“We have enough seeds, fertiliser, chemicals and everything needed to make this project a success,” he said.

Deputy Minister Haritatos encouraged farmers to take advantage of the recent increase in wheat producer price.

“I want to encourage farmers to take advantage of the new producer prices.

“If many farmers take part in winter wheat farming, then we are guaranteed of good yield which will significantly reduce our import bill and that money can be used in other sectors.

“If the target is met, bread prices will also go down,” he said.

This comes at a time when millers and bakers are complaining of wheat shortages, a situation which has seen prices of bread continuing to rise.

“The country already has a deficit of wheat and relies on imports.