Preparing for a successful farming season
Word From The Market with Tina Nleya THE summer cropping season in now in full swing, with some parts of Zimbabwe already experiencing light rainfall. As the rains approach, it is essential for farmers to be well-prepared. One of the most important tools at their disposal is information – timely and accurate details about weather […]
Word From The Market with Tina Nleya
THE summer cropping season in now in full swing, with some parts of Zimbabwe already experiencing light rainfall.
As the rains approach, it is essential for farmers to be well-prepared.
One of the most important tools at their disposal is information – timely and accurate details about weather forecasts, input availability and Government support programmes.
This information can help farmers make crucial decisions and capitalise on what is predicted to be a favourable season with normal to above-normal rainfall.
In this article, we explore why being informed is critical and how farmers can use key information to prepare effectively for the summer cropping season.
Weather forecasts
One of the key determinants of a successful farming season is the weather.
According to the Meteorological Services Department, most parts of the country are expected to receive normal to above-normal rainfall. While this is good news for farmers, it is important to recognise that rainfall patterns will vary by region.
Farmers should stay updated on localised forecasts to ensure they plant at the right time and choose the right crops and varieties. For example, regions such as Buhera, where the Presidential Climate-Proofed Input Support Programme (Pfumvudza/Intwasa) was launched last week, are expected to benefit from favourable conditions.
Farmers in these regions should have prepared their fields early to take advantage of the rains and ensure they plant on time.
For farmers in all areas, but especially drier areas, water conservation technologies like Pfumvudza are essential.
This practice, which has proven effective in maximising production even with limited rainfall, helps farmers manage water efficiently and improve yields.
Farmers are strongly encouraged to stay updated on weather conditions through regular radio broadcasts and updates from extension officers.
Access to inputs
In addition to weather information, timely access to agricultural inputs such as seed, fertilisers and chemicals is critical for success.
Farmers who secure their inputs early are better positioned to plant on time and take full advantage of the rains.
Delays in planting due to lack of inputs can result in reduced yields and affect food security. This season, the Government has made significant efforts to ensure farmers have access to the necessary inputs.
Programmes like the Presidential Input Support Scheme provide free inputs to vulnerable households, which is especially important for smallholder farmers.
These farmers, who may not have the financial resources to purchase inputs, are given the means to feed their families and contribute to national food security.
Another key initiative is the National Enhanced Agricultural Productivity Scheme (NEAPS), which offers subsidised inputs to commercial and communal farmers.
This programme focuses on strategic crops like maize, wheat and soya beans, ensuring Zimbabwe maintains sufficient food stocks and has an exportable surplus. Farmers participating in NEAPS should register early to avoid missing out on this support. Additionally, the Government has prioritised irrigation rehabilitation projects, which aim to reduce reliance on rain-fed agriculture.
These projects are especially crucial for farmers in regions experiencing irregular rainfall or extended dry spells.
By rehabilitating existing irrigation systems and developing new ones, the Government is helping farmers boost productivity and ensure consistent harvests all year round.
Leveraging market information
In addition to environmental and agronomic knowledge, understanding market dynamics is crucial.
The Agricultural Marketing Authority (AMA) is committed to providing farmers with up-to-date market information, helping them navigate pricing trends, demand fluctuations and consumer preferences.
For example, with maize prices expected to remain stable due to anticipated high demand, farmers can strategically plan their sales. Farmers should take full advantage of the resources and insights offered by AMA.
With regular updates and a wealth of information, AMA empowers farmers to make data-driven decisions, thereby enhancing their chances of success this season.
To further enhance access to inputs and improve farming efficiency, AMA has begun registering farmers through the National Farmers Database Management System (NFDMS).
This system provides a centralised platform where farmers can register and be issued with a “Farmer’s Card”.
Farmers registered in the NFDMS will not only have better access to inputs, but they will also benefit from detailed insights into farming trends, crop production and pricing.
This innovative platform is set to revolutionise agriculture by improving supply chain efficiency and ensuring that farmers receive the resources they need when they need them.
Preparedness is key
As we look ahead to the farming season, the message is clear: preparedness is key. By staying informed about the latest weather forecasts, securing inputs early and utilising available Government support, farmers can significantly increase their chances of a successful harvest.
Prepared farmers are more likely to avoid the pitfalls of unpredictable weather, input shortages and poor yields.
Together, we can make this farming season one of the best by harnessing the power of information and careful planning.
With the right preparation, Zimbabwe’s agricultural sector can continue to grow, contributing to food security, economic development and a prosperous future for all.
Stay informed, stay prepared and let us work together for a successful farming season.
Tina Nleya is the Agricultural Marketing Authority (AMA)’s marketing and public relations manager. She can be contacted on tnleya@ama.co.zw
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