Zimbabwe targets 16 million plots to tackle drought
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on 263chat
The Zimbabwean government plans to establish 16 million Pfumvudza agricultural plots to help three million smallholders withstand drought linked to the El Niño phenomenon. Agriculture Minister Anxious Masuka said more than 9.6 million plots were already in place and that the authorities were encouraging the cultivation of traditional grains, reports 263chat.
The Zimbabwean government is targeting 16 million Pfumvudza agricultural plots to help smallholders cope with drought expected under the El Niño phenomenon. Agriculture, Mechanisation and Water Resources Development Minister Anxious Masuka said more than 9.6 million plots had already been established, according to Zimbabwean media outlet 263chat.
The programme targets three million smallholders, each of whom is expected to establish three plots. The government is also asking them to grow traditional grains, which are more resistant to a lack of rainfall than maize in many farming areas. Masuka said 45% of basal fertiliser requirements had been delivered, while planned stocks of top-dressing fertiliser and maize seed were complete. Nearly 30% of the required sorghum seed had also been distributed.
The measures are intended to protect crops, livestock and household food supplies from low rainfall. They add to Bulawayo’s preparations for super El Niño, announced on 20 October.
