Roseline Mutare
MASVINGO RURAL-Record three time maize farmer of the year Onesimo Mukumba of Windcrest Farm in Glenlivert, Ward 8, under Chief Chikwanda’s held a befitting field day which was graced by tens of people including senior government officials among others.
The field day set itself apart as it showcased Mukumba’s ability to turn the land into cash as well as ensuring food self sufficiency for the country.
The local farmers, senior government officials including the Minister for Masvingo Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Ezra Chadzamira were impressed with the level of production at the 1060 hectare farm which produces an impressive average of 12tones of maize per hectare.
Mukumba bought Windcrest in 1997 and has turned it into one of the most productive in the province with over 100 top breed cattle, eight hectares under citrus and goat breeding is also undertaken at the vast farm.
This year alone they have put 60 hectares under maize which will be used to feed the cattle and farm employees with the remainder being sold to the Grain Marketing Board.
“We are expecting a bumper harvest of maize due to the good rains that we received this season. We will use the maize to feed our cattle so that they fetch high on the market as well as feed our employees with the remainder of around 200tonnes going to the national reserves through the GMB,” said the farm manager, Kassian Njiva during an interview with The Midweek Watch on the sidelines o the field day.
They are also expecting a bumper harvest of 20tonnes of sugar beans that they will sell on the market.
Mukumba (70) a seasoned business executive of note has been adjudged the best staple food farmer for three years on the bounce showcasing his conviction to feed the nation.
Speaking at the Maize Field Day, Mukumba attributed his success in farming to his parents, who instilled in him the value of hard work from a tender age.
“My parents used to send us to Mutimurefu prison to learn discipline and hard work, my schooling was financed from farming, and it has been a rewarding career path for me,” said Mukumba
Minister Chadzamira who was the guest of honour at the field, praised Mukumba’s farming practices and commitment to agricultural excellence.
“This farm is a shining example of what can be achieved through dedication and hard work, We need more farmers like him who are passionate about agriculture and contributing to the country’s food security,” said Minister Chadzamira.
Mukumba said the farm employs around 30 people on a permanent basis, providing a vital source of income for local residents. As the agricultural sector continues to play a vital role in Zimbabwe’s economy, farmers like Mukumba serve as beacons of hope, inspiring others to follow in their footsteps.
