The ManicaPost
Farming Reporter
FARMERS in Middle Sabi are expecting a bumper harvest of the winter wheat crop after implementing effective measures to control quelea birds that ravage the crop.
Quelea birds had become a menace causing farmers sleepless nights as they invaded the crop and threatened to reduce the yield.
Middle Sabi farmers’ association chairperson Mr Skhumbuzo Thondhlana said they are expecting improved yields this year as preparations for harvesting the crop are at an advanced stage.
“All is set for the harvesting of the winter wheat. Production was good this season as we managed to contain the quelea birds that usually ravage the crop by implementing effective control measures with the assistance of Agrtiex.
“As we harvest the early crop, we are expecting high yields. The increased productivity will go a long way in contributing towards food and nutrition security under National Development Strategy (NDS1). This will also significantly improve the livelihoods of local farmers,” said Mr Thondhlana.
He commended Government’s mechanisation drive as combined harvesters are readily available while there are plans to import more tractors.
The country is expecting to reach self-sufficiency with a record harvest of 380 000 tonnes of winter wheat.
