Small grains output to increase

Small Grains and Cereal Producers Association chairman Basil Nyabadza

Published: 17 March 2014

PRODUCTION of small grains is expected to double this year as most dry regions received adequate rains despite some areas being affected by floods, an expert has said.

Small Grains and Cereal Producers Association chairman Basil Nyabadza told New Ziana that the country was poised for a good harvest both in quality and quantity amid expectations money to buy crops from farmers will be made available.

"This year we are hoping to double the harvest compared to last year as the rainfall that was received was favourable especially in normally dry regions," he said.

"Although there are some areas that were hit by floods, overall we are positive about the yields," he added.

Small grains account for a significant percentage in the gross agricultural production of the country and the government has been on a drive to promote their production to boost food security, especially in drought-prone areas like Masvingo, parts of the Midlands and Matabeleland.

The Ministry of Health and Child Care has also been advocating the consumption of small grains which are high in nutrition. Nyabadza said despite the financial constraints that farmers experienced in accessing funding from the government, they did not give up but increased production and are looking forward to a good harvest.

"Access to funds and inputs was a challenge but they managed to access loans from banks. It is unfortunate that areas like Tsholotsho in Matabeleland North and Tokwe-Mukosi in Masvingo were hit by floods and some farms were as a result waterlogged."

Traditionally small grains have suffered from lack of markets resulting in few farmers growing the crops.
- New Ziana