Roseline Mutare
Masvingo Province has made significant progress in its winter wheat planting initiative, achieving 96% (4,800) of its target of 5,000 hectares.
Masvingo Provincial Agritex Director, Caleb Mahoya confirmed the latest reports to The Midweek Watch saying 10.9% of the crop is still in the planting stage, while 66.7% is in the tillering stage, and 22.2% is at the booting stage.
“The crop condition is fair, thanks to adequate water supply from above-normal rainfall, crop is doing well, and we are optimistic about a good harvest. Compared to last year, the province has enjoyed relatively stable electricity supply, with minimal load shedding schedules,” said Mahoya.
He also added that with favorable conditions in place, the focus has shifted to good agronomic practices, such as irrigation management and pest control. Farmers are being encouraged to adopt best practices, to ensure a bountiful harvest.
Mahoya emphasized that the province is targeting to exceed last year’s harvest, given the stable conditions and abundant rains witnessed this season.
“We are confident that with proper management and care, we will achieve a higher yield than last season, the progress made so far is a sign to the province’s commitment to improving agricultural productivity and food security,” he added.
