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The Government has reportedly failed to release funds to the Grain Marketing Board (GMB) to enable it to pay wheat farmers for deliveries to the parastatal.
A farmer in Banket, Mashonaland West Province, speaking to <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200021385/gmb-fails-to-pay-wheat-farmers">NewsDay</a> anonymously, accused GMB of making false promises. He said:
<blockquote>
We are into the festive season and workers look forward to us paying them but GMB has not paid us.
Besides the Christmas holiday, every parent needs school fees early next year. We are not happy at all.
</blockquote>
Another farmer said that only one farmer in Karoi, also in Mash West Province, was paid recently due to pressing health issues. He said:
<blockquote>
Indeed, GMB has not paid us for the outstanding winter wheat.
Only one farmer who has health challenges was paid recently. We have failed to buy inputs for this farming season and are in a fix over the delays by GMB.
</blockquote>
However, GMB chief executive officer Edison Badarai claimed that the parastatal has started paying wheat farmers. He said:
<blockquote>
On the US dollar component, the payments have been largely paid, except for US$2.8 million which will be liquidated in no time.
Winter wheat intake has also commenced with ZWL$59 million paid so far.
GMB would like to apologise for the delayed payment to our resilient and committed farmers spearheading the agriculture revolution that has seen Zimbabwe attaining food self-sufficiency.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe produced over 465 000 tonnes of wheat in the 2023 winter wheat season, thereby surpassing the previous record of 375 000 tonnes attained in 2022.
The country requires about 360 000 tonnes of wheat for national consumption annually and this year’s winter wheat crop is 100 000 tonnes more than national demand.
GMB’s failure to pay grain farmers on time may scuttle the progress the country has been making in recent years to be self-sufficient.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Pindula News

GMB Fails To Pay Wheat Farmers

Two people have been arrested in connection with the invasion of Umvutcha Farm, a family-run farm, on the outskirts of Bulawayo, reported <a href="https://cite.org.zw/two-arrested-for-umvutsha-farm-invasion/">CITE</a>.
The ownership of the property has been in dispute for years after the Ministry of Lands allegedly placed an erroneous caveat on the land.
The family lawyer, Bruce Masamvu of Masamvu &amp; Da Silva-Gustavo Law Chambers, told the publication that police are still carrying out investigations to find out who is behind the invasion. He said:
<blockquote>
Police said they have arrested at least two suspects who were part of the crowd that was trying to evict the family from their property. They said they are still carrying out investigations to find out who is behind the invasion.
</blockquote>
Court documents on the property, cite Alister Michael Fletcher as the applicant and Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, Registrar of Deeds and Robert Njanji as respondents, showing that several court applications have been made to the property various judgments have been passed.
In September 2020, several war veterans who had resettled at the farm <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/news/article/44655/umguza-war-vets-face-eviction">were served with eviction notices</a> after the son-in-law of the former owner Alister Micheal Fletcher successfully challenged the seizure of the farm by the government.
Fletcher’s son-in-law, identified as TR Maidwell, applied for their eviction and won a default judgment after the farmers failed to respond to his application.
A <a href="https://bulawayo24.com/index-id-news-sc-national-byo-238571.html">recent report</a> claims the farm is owned by Tara and Troy Maidwell. The family is into market gardening, supplying numerous supermarkets in Bulawayo with vegetables.
Land ownership is an emotive issue in Zimbabwe, dating back to the late 19th century when British fortune hunters colonised the country and seized land from Africans.
In the year 2000, the Government of Zimbabwe embarked on a controversial land reform programme to “correct historical imbalances” by redistributing land owned by whites among Africans.
However, hundreds of white farmers remained on their farms and some landless blacks have been pushing the Government to be allowed to take over the farms.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Two Arrested Over Umvutcha Farm invasion

The Zimbabwe Seed Association (ZAS) has revealed that 11 seed companies in the country are facing a financial crisis due to a debt of over US$60 million incurred by the government. The debt, which is related to seed supplied for the 2022/23 and 2023/24 agricultural seasons, has left these companies struggling to secure financial support from banks and investors.
The 11 seed producers are Arda, Easi Seeds, Farmbiz Genetics, Intaba Trading, Klein Karoo Seed Marketing, Prime Seeds/Seed Co Vegetables, Quton, Reapers, Seed Co, Tocek and Zimbabwe Technology Solutions. They all indicated that they are heavily borrowed and are failing to timely service the bank loans, <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/business/article/200021247/us60m-govt-debt-leaves-seed-producers-on-the-brink">NewsDay</a> reported citing a ZSA memorandum dated December 18, 2023. Read the memo in part:
<blockquote>
Some members have reported that they have defaulted on bank loans. Relationships with banks are now at their lowest level, seed companies cannot be trusted and hence are failing to access favourable credit facilities including the productive sector facility.
Those able to persuade banks for additional loan facilities are getting very high interest rates, which is very costly.
Companies have failed to access forex to timely import seed necessary to close supply gaps and this includes hybrid seed of sunflower and sorghums as well as parental seed which will help localised certified seed production.
In the past few days, we submitted a request of US$15 528 334,58 from six ZSA members and so far, got no response.
</blockquote>
The situation has been worsened by the imminent drought caused by the El Niño spell. The debt issue comes at a time when the government is also struggling to pay farmers in US dollars for wheat delivered to the Grain Marketing Board (GMB) after a successful winter cropping season.
According to a memo, the companies have been unable to import necessary seeds due to a lack of foreign currency, leading to supply gaps. The financial distress is unsustainable and could result in the closure of seed companies, jeopardising Zimbabwe’s national seed security.
The financial strain has also affected the growers, with many not receiving full payment for the seeds they delivered. Some growers are demanding payment in US dollars, similar to other sectors such as maize and wheat. ZAS has urged the government to expedite payments and consider paying part of the debt in foreign currency. They have also called for supportive financial programs and tax breaks to help the seed sector recover from the crisis.
Earlier this year, Zimbabwean seed producers highlighted that they were facing challenges such as high interest rates and limited access to funding. The current financial crisis further exacerbates these issues and threatens the stability of the seed sector in the country.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Seed Companies Facing A Financial Crisis Due To A Govt Debt Of Over US$60 Million

Uralchem Group, a Russian fertiliser manufacturer, has reportedly fully loaded a humanitarian shipment of over 23 000 tonnes of fertilisers for Zimbabwe.
According to <a href="https://seanews.ru/en/2023/12/15/en-uralchem-ships-humanitarian-consignment-for-zimbabwe/">Sea News</a>, the consignment was loaded onto a vessel in the ports of Riga, Latvia, and Ghent, Belgium, and has started its journey to the port of Beira in Mozambique.
From Beira, the shipment, comprising bulk loads of potash and NPKS fertilizers, will be transported to Zimbabwe by land.
The shipment is facilitated by the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), which has chartered a vessel to transport the consignment as part of UNCTAD-led efforts.
Uralchem Group will reportedly cover the sea freight and other delivery costs.
The delivery for Zimbabwe is the Group’s fourth donation in a series of humanitarian shipments of its fertilisers to Africa.
According to Sea News, to date, Uralchem Group has dispatched over 100 000 tonnes of fertilizers to Africa free of charge.
More than 77 000 tonnes of this amount was shipped from ports and warehouses in the European Union in cooperation with WFP to Malawi, Kenya and now to Zimbabwe.
Russia has been involved in providing aid and assistance to various African countries since the days of the wars of independence from the 1960s to the 1970s.
Since then, Russian aid to Africa has been on development projects, humanitarian assistance, and collaboration in areas such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, agriculture, and natural resources.
The intention behind these initiatives is to strengthen political, economic, and cultural ties between Russia and the world’s second-most populous continent.
Critics say Africa has a leadership crisis that makes the continent rely on handouts from other countries when it is endowed with abundant natural resources.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

23 000 Tonnes Of Russian Fertiliser En Route To Zimbabwe

The Government has advised farmers that the 2023/24 rainy season has started and is likely to be short, reported <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/rainy-season-starts-likely-to-be-short/">The Herald</a>.
Addressing the media on Tuesday, 12 December, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Jenfan Muswere said most parts of the country are expected to receive rains this week. He said:
<blockquote>
Government highlights that rainfall is expected throughout the country during the week.
Farmers are therefore advised that the rainfall season has started and is likely to be short.
</blockquote>
Muswere said that around 2 877 000 hectares were targeted for planting summer crops this season.
Maize was projected to take 1 782 000 hectares, sorghum 350 000 hectares, pearl millet 200 000 hectares, soya beans 60 000 hectares, sunflower 160 000 hectares, sugar beans 55 000 hectares and cotton 270 000 hectares. Said Muswere:
<blockquote>
Of the total hectarage, 867 500 hectares will be financed by the Climate Proofed Presidential Inputs Supply Scheme (Pfumvudza/lntwasa), and the rest by CBZ, AFC, NMB and other banks and by the private sector and individual farmers.
As of 10 December 2023 and due to the late commencement of the rainfall season, about 95 156 hectares had been planted, compared to 465 707 hectares at the same time last year.
The country has sufficient seed in stock to meet demand, with 40,8 per cent of the available maize seed being of the early to ultra-early maturity varieties.
Significant progress has been recorded in farmer training and the preparation of Pfumvudza/lntwasa plots.
Farmers have generally favoured climate-proofing interventions during this El Nino year, with 87 per cent of the targeted 11,85 million plots having been prepared.
In terms of livestock, Government has instituted immediate remedial measures including borehole drilling, hay bailing and enhanced disease management, to alleviate the poor livestock condition in the drier provinces.
The worst affected provinces are Matabeleland South, Matabeleland North and Masvingo.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe experienced a prolonged drought from late October to early December which greatly affected farming as the majority of farmers rely on rain.
The 2023/24 season has been impacted by the El Nino phenomenon, which according to the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO), may last at least until April 2024.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Rainy Season Likely To Be Short - Govt

Russia’s Uralchem Group is sending 23,000 tonnes of mineral fertiliser to Zimbabwe to support the country’s efforts to improve food and nutrition security. This donation comes at a time when the Zimbabwean government has opened up fertiliser imports due to increased agricultural productivity and local manufacturers struggling to meet demand. The fertiliser shipment, consisting of potash and NPKS fertiliser, is being facilitated by the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) and will be transported by land from the port of Beira in Mozambique to Zimbabwe.
The donation was announced during the Russia-Africa Summit in St Petersburg, and President Mnangagwa expressed his gratitude, acknowledging it as a testament to the friendship between Russia and Zimbabwe. Uralchem Group’s donation is part of its commitment to addressing global hunger through its partnership with the WFP. This is the fourth fertiliser donation by Uralchem Group to Africa, with over 100,000 tonnes donated so far, including shipments to Malawi and Kenya.
Uralchem Group aims to donate around 300,000 tonnes of mineral fertilisers to developing nations to alleviate the global food crisis and prevent crop losses in famine-risk countries, according to <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/russia-ships-23-000t-of-fertiliser-to-zim/">The Herald</a>. The company’s CEO, Mr Dmitry Konyaev, emphasized the importance of fertilisers in ensuring global food security and expressed his hope that Zimbabwean farmers will benefit from the fertilisers and achieve improved agricultural output. He said:
<blockquote>
Fertilisers are an integral part of the global food security system, which relies on the stability of food production. As one of the key suppliers of mineral fertilisers to international markets including Africa, and a company with a proud mission to create a world without hunger, we see our exceptional role in doing whatever we can to ensure food security in those parts of the world where people may face food shortages.
We shall be looking forward to seeing Zimbabwean farmers getting our fertilisers, using it properly and eventually reaping a fruitful harvest.
</blockquote>
Mr. Emin Bayramov, the head of special public relations projects at Uralchem Group, announced that the fertiliser donation is currently en route to Zimbabwe. The fertiliser was loaded onto ships in ports located in Riga, Latvia, and Ghent, Belgium. He said in a statement:
<blockquote>
Uralchem Group announces that a humanitarian shipment of over 23 000 tonnes of fertiliser for Zimbabwe has been fully loaded onto a vessel in the ports of Riga, Latvia, and Ghent, Belgium, and has started its journey to the port of Beira in Mozambique.
From there the fertilisers will be transported to Zimbabwe by land. The shipment, comprising bulk loads of potash and NPKS fertiliser, is again facilitated by the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), which has chartered a vessel to transport the consignment as part of UNCTAD-led efforts.
</blockquote>
Mr. Bayramov stated that Uralchem Group will be covering the expenses for the shipment process of the fertiliser. He also stated that the donation to Zimbabwe marks the fourth time the company has provided fertiliser to an African country. So far, Uralchem Group has sent over 100,000 tonnes of fertilisers to Africa without charging any fees. Out of this amount, more than 77,000 tonnes were shipped from ports and warehouses in the European Union in collaboration with the WFP. The fertilisers were sent to Malawi, Kenya, and now Zimbabwe.
The donation from Uralchem Group to Zimbabwe aligns with the United Nations’ goal of ending hunger and ensuring food security. It follows another shipment of <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2023/12/04/latvia-sends-shipment-of-7000-tons-of-mineral-fertilizers-to-zimbabwe/">mineral fertilizers totalling seven thousand tons</a> that was sent to Zimbabwe from the port of Riga in Latvia, as a donation to the UN World Food Programme. This was part of a larger shipment of 200,000 tons of fertilizers from Russia stored in Latvia.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Russia's Uralchem Group Donates 23,000 Tonnes Of Mineral Fertiliser To Zimbabwe

On 27 November 2023, a shipment of mineral fertilizers was sent from the port of Riga in Latvia to Zimbabwe. The shipment, totalling seven thousand tons, was a donation to the UN World Food Programme. This was the second shipment of a larger quantity of 200,000 tons of mineral fertilizers, originating from Russia and stored in Latvia.
In a <a href="https://www.mfa.gov.lv/en/article/cargo-mineral-fertilizers-shipped-riga-zimbabwe-behalf-un-world-food-programme?utm_source=https%3A%2F%2Fc.newsnow.co.uk%2F">statement</a> seen by Pindula News, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Northern European country said these fertilizers are owned by companies that are under sanctions from the European Union.
The UN World Food Programme plans to organise more shipments of sanctioned mineral fertilizers from Latvia shortly. Read the statement in part:
<blockquote>
The UN World Food Programme plans to organise the next shipment of sanctioned mineral fertilizer from Latvia soon in order to provide support to countries the most in need of those products.
</blockquote>
In December 2022, the Cabinet of Ministers in Latvia responded to a request from the United Nations to help mitigate the negative consequences of the war in Ukraine and address food crises in African and Latin American countries. They decided to support the donation of mineral fertilizers owned by companies under EU sanctions, through the UN World Food Programme. The first shipment was sent to Kenya in the spring of 2023.
Latvia, along with its foreign partners and international organizations, continues to provide support to countries affected by the food crisis caused by the war in Ukraine. They are working together to alleviate the difficulties faced by these nations.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Latvia Sends Shipment Of 7,000 Tons Of Mineral Fertilizers To Zimbabwe

Farmers across the country have been urged to plant short-season crop varieties this summer season following delays to the start of the rainy season.
In an interview with <a href="https://newziana.co.zw/2023/11/28/farmers-advised-to-go-for-short-season-seed-varieties/">New Ziana</a>, Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development chief agronomist Rutendo Nhongonhema said farmers should finish preparing their land while waiting for the onset of the rains. She said:
<blockquote>
My appeal to farmers at the moment is that those who can, should go for short-season varieties because the planting season has progressed with no rains.
</blockquote>
According to a preliminary weather forecast, Zimbabwe expects to receive normal to below-normal rainfall with parts of the Midlands and Matabeleland provinces getting below-normal rains for the beginning of the 2023/24 planting season.
The delay in the onset of the rains, attributed to El Nino, is threatening both humans and wild animals as water sources are drying up.
Last month, the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) said that the ongoing El Niño event is expected to last at least until April 2024.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Farmers Advised To Plant Short Season Seed Varieties

A recent graduate from the University of Exeter, Hugo Winkfield, has secured over £270,000 in funding for a regenerative agriculture project in Africa. Hugo took up a work placement in Zimbabwe’s Mount Darwin district, where he is transforming part of the Agriculture Research Trust’s farm into a training centre and working with smallholder farmers to implement sustainable farming practices, according to <a href="https://www.southwestfarmer.co.uk/news/23946707.university-exeter-graduate-receives-270k-project/">South West Farmer</a>.
The funding, provided by Oak Foundation, will support Hugo’s research on the benefits of regenerative agriculture and its potential influence on national policy in Zimbabwe. Said the 23-year-old:
<blockquote>
I knew nothing about farming before I started the placement – I hardly knew what a plough did.
I really committed myself and I learned a huge amount about how to farm arable crops, from the top farmers and researchers in Zimbabwe. I learned that you must aim for as much as you possibly can, given even the smallest opportunity or responsibility and it usually pays off.
Sometimes, feeling underqualified for what you are doing is normal, and likely means you are pushing yourself to achieve more than you thought you ever could.
My degree gave me the skills to think in a rigorous scientific manner and apply the broad theory I had learned to the specific application of farming. My ecological understanding allowed me to design the cropping systems trials in a way which was beneficial for not just the local area, but on a global scale, too.
[Zimbabwe] is an amazing country. You do have to adjust to some things – the traffic lights don’t always work, there are power cuts, potholes and occasional food shortages. But the people here are so kind, friendly, jolly, and they savour the simple things in life. The country has beautiful landscapes and is teeming with wildlife, has a rich culture, and (unofficially) the best weather in the world.
</blockquote>
Hugo’s research is funded by the Agricultural Partnership Trust (APT) which is in collaboration with the Agriculture Research Trust (ART).
Zimbabwe has fertile land that is suitable for various agricultural activities. The soils in Zimbabwe are rich in nutrients, making them ideal for growing crops and raising livestock. Additionally, Zimbabwe has a favourable climate with adequate rainfall in many regions, which supports agricultural productivity. The country also has a long farming history and a skilled workforce in the agricultural sector. 
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Exeter University Graduate Secures £270K Funding For Regenerative Agriculture Project In Zimbabwe

The El Nino-induced drought being experienced in Zimbabwe has resulted in the death of livestock especially cattle in Matabeleland South Province.
The <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/southerneye/local/article/200020118/drought-claiming-livestock-in-matabeleland-south">Southern Eye</a> reported that Matobo District is the most affected area where cattle have died due to lack of water and grass while others have been trapped in mud at water points, especially in dams.
According to a report released during the weekend by Habakkuk Trust, in rural communities in Matabeleland South, cattle are dying after being trapped in muddy ponds. It said:
<blockquote>
The prevailing harsh climatic conditions have precipitated an erratic start to the 2023/24 rainy season currently being experienced in most parts of the country.
Zimbabwe is currently at the peak of the ongoing strong El Nino event which is driving below-average rainfall across much of southern Africa.
According to villagers from Gohole in Matobo district, the situation is dire as dozens of cattle succumb to the crisis in an attempt to drink water from muddy ponds that are inside the local dam.
</blockquote>
Feluna Ncube, proportional representation councillor for Gohole in Matobo Ward 20, said:
<blockquote>
We are receiving daily reports of cattle dying from being trapped in the muddy pools of Gohole Dam.
As if it’s not enough, some of our cattle are succumbing to starvation as grazing areas have been depleted and we are losing hope by the day.
</blockquote>
Mary Mhlanga, a member of the Habakkuk Trust Community Advocacy Action Team from Matobo Ward 6 said:
<blockquote>
We are involuntarily slaughtering our cattle every day, especially the ones in calf.
Once a cow in calf drops to the ground, chances of raising it to stand on its feet again are slim and we are left with no option but to slaughter.
</blockquote>
The report further stated that the adverse weather conditions have also affected Bulilima, where wild animals are attacking livestock. It said:
<blockquote>
Hyena invasions are on the rise, compounding livestock losses as the animals are too weak to escape from attacks by these predators.
The climate change-induced weather phenomenon has colluded with worsening economic conditions coupled with a weak climate governance framework much to the detriment of local communities.
The limited adaptation measures to the climate crisis are threatening to severely affect not only the household economic base but also have ripple effects on the local and national economies.
</blockquote>
Villagers from Madlambudzi in Bulilima Ward 11 have since resorted to fetching water from dams to water their livestock.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Cattle Dying In Muddy Pools In Matabeleland South

Zimbabwe’s blueberry production, one of the country’s fastest-growing crops, is under threat from a currency crisis and high borrowing costs, the Horticultural Development Council (HDC) has said.
HDC is a non-profit, membership-driven organisation in the export horticultural industry.
According to HDC, Zimbabwe doubled its blueberry production to 7 000 metric tonnes this year.
The country’s climatic conditions allow high yields from open-field planting and early delivery into export markets.
However, plantings, which have expanded by nearly 800 percent to 575 hectares since 2018, stagnated this year as farmers grappled with high borrowing costs and the impact of a volatile economic climate. Reuters quoted HDC as saying:
<blockquote>
There were no significant new blueberries in 2023 as growers recovered from a tough 2022. An additional 100 hectares is anticipated only in 2024.
</blockquote>
The HDC said high interest rates and limited access to long-term financing are negatively affecting blueberry farmers who only receive 75 percent of their export earnings in United States dollars.
The farmers are also seeking income tax holidays, a removal of import duty for key inputs and a reduction in land levies to promote the industry which is still in its infancy. Said HDC:
<blockquote>
Unless policy issues are resolved, this promising industry risks stagnation and Zimbabwe will miss out on a strong opportunity to position itself as a leader on the global stage.
</blockquote>
According to <a href="https://east-fruit.com/en/news/surprisingly-zimbabwe-becomes-a-global-leader-in-blueberry-export-growth/">EastFruit</a>, Zimbabwe’s blueberry exports are currently growing faster than any other country in the world.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zimbabwe’s Economic Challenges Threaten Emergent Blueberry Sector

There is currently an investment boom in blueberry farming in Zimbabwe which has made the southern African the world leader in the growth rate of blueberry exports.
According to <a href="https://east-fruit.com/en/news/surprisingly-zimbabwe-becomes-a-global-leader-in-blueberry-export-growth/">EastFruit</a>, new plantations are established in Zimbabwe mainly by investors from South Africa, who often diversify or even move production to the country due to very favourable climatic conditions, availability of high-quality water for irrigation and cheap labour.
Blueberry production in Zimbabwe is developed mainly by investors who already have experience growing blueberries in similar climatic conditions and this means that the productivity of the plantations and the quality of the products are quite high.
Additionally, investors already have established blueberry sales channels, which allows them to do the same with berries grown in Zimbabwe.
As a result, Zimbabwe’s blueberry exports are currently growing faster than any other country in the world, an incredible achievement for a country that is better known for its record-breaking hyperinflation rates and poverty.
Andrij Yarmak, an economist at the investment department of the Food and Agriculture Ministry, UN organisation (FAO), said:
<blockquote>
On average over the past five years, Zimbabwe has increased blueberry exports by 63% each year or by 1,200 tones.
In 2022, exports grew by 85% or 2.3 thousand tons and exceeded 5 thousand tons, which allowed the country to enter the top 15 countries in blueberry exports and overtake Serbia in volume.
</blockquote>
EastFruit experts expect that in 2023, blueberry exports from Zimbabwe could grow by another 30-40% and reach 6.5-7.0 thousand tons.
Some of the blueberries from Zimbabwe are exported to South Africa, apparently for further re-exports.
The country also directly exports fresh blueberries to the UK, EU and Middle East countries, as well as to Russia.
Below are some of the common uses of blueberries:
<ul>
<li>Blueberries can be eaten fresh as a delicious and healthy snack.</li>
<li>They can be used in baking, such as in blueberry muffins, pancakes, pies, or tarts.</li>
<li>Blueberries can be added to salads for a burst of flavor and nutrition.</li>
<li>They can be used in smoothies or blended into sauces and dressings.</li>
<li>Blueberries can be used as a topping for yogurt, ice cream, or cereal.</li>
<li>They can be made into jams, jellies, or preserves.</li>
<li>Blueberries can be used to infuse flavor into water, teas, or cocktails.</li>
</ul>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zimbabwe Becomes A Global Leader In Blueberry Export Growth

Zimbabwe produced over 465 000 tonnes of wheat in the 2023 winter wheat season, thereby surpassing the previous record of 375 000 tonnes attained in 2022.
The country requires about 360 000 tonnes of wheat for national consumption annually and this month this year’s winter wheat crop is 100 000 tonnes more than national demand.
Speaking to <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/zim-sets-new-wheat-record">The Sunday Mail</a>, the chief director responsible for agricultural engineering, mechanisation, post-harvest agro-processing and soil conservation in the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, Engineer Edwin Zimunga, said:
<blockquote>
We can safely say wheat harvesting is complete. From the mechanisation view, we are now shifting focus to land preparation for the summer cropping season.
Government’s investment in wheat production continues to pay off handsomely, as farmers have successfully harvested over 465 000 tonnes, representing a new record in wheat production.
We have reason to celebrate as our farmers really answered the call from the Government to fight for food security. It is clear that the initiatives are yielding results.
The high wheat output is expected to lead to a decline in prices for basics like bread, pasta and pastries as flour is a major ingredient.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe produces what is called soft wheat which is typically milled into flour and used to make a wide range of foods, including bread, muffins, noodles, pasta, biscuits, cakes, cookies, pastries and cereal bars.
Grain Millers Association of Zimbabwe (GMAZ) chairperson Tafadzwa Musarara told The Sunday Mail that the country could export some of the soft wheat in return for only 30 percent hard wheat to meet the market standards of bread.
Zimbabwe has surpassed its winter wheat output target for the second successive season and this has been attributed to favourable pre-planting producer prices, uninterrupted electricity and water supply for irrigation.
Prior to the winter season, Government set a pre-planting producer price of US$520 per tonne of wheat.
Part of the money is paid in foreign currency, while the Zimbabwe dollar component is paid at the prevailing interbank rate.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2023/11/18/president-mnangagwa-reverses-the-appointment-of-general-valerio-sibanda-to-zanu-pf-politburo/">Pindula News</a>

Zimbabwe Sets New Wheat Record; Farmers Produced 100 000 Tonnes More Than National Demand

The Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development Anxious Masuka said that the Government does not set prices of cotton between growers and contractors.
Masuka said that as for pricing and payment of farmers whose inputs are funded by the Government, a system has been put in place to ensure that both parties benefit.
He was responding to concerns raised by MPs during a Question and Answer session in the National Assembly. Said Masuka:
<blockquote>
The Government does not set prices or conditions fon how to pay. As a Government, we receive from the contractors, the cost of growing cotton in a specific area, like a Pfumvudza plot.
As for the farmers we give inputs to, that is when we state the price that we expect to buy, but the other private contractors agree on the prices they are going to pay.
Government does not go into contracts with farmers. Farmers get into contracts with the private players.
</blockquote>
Masuka said that this year, eight contractors have engaged and entered into agreements with cotton farmers across the country. He said:
<blockquote>
I said we had a meeting with eight contractors or companies that go out there in the rural areas.
Those eight companies will be interacting with the farmers out there in the rural areas that we represent. So, we expect the country to grow a lot of cotton.
</blockquote>
He said that cotton farmers whose inputs are funded by the Government will get a fair return on their hard work. Said Masuka:
<blockquote>
Government is interested in the pricing of cotton so that there is a fair return for the farmers’ efforts.
Last year we introduced a grid-differentiated pricing system that is sensitive to the hard work that farmers had put in and we started at 40c a kilogramme which is comparable to other jurisdictions in the region.
</blockquote>
Meanwhile, the Government recently summoned the Cotton Company of Zimbabwe (COTTCO) officials to explain why the company is delaying paying the US$6.8 million the company owes cotton farmers.
Last month, COTTCO chief executive officer, <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2023/10/21/cottco-owes-cotton-farmers-millions-of-us-dollars/">Priscilla Mutembwa said that efforts were underway to pay all farmers’ outstanding payments</a> before the onset of the 2022/23 summer cropping season.
Mutembwa COTTCO had paid $16.7 million to farmers, out of $23 million owed, adding that the company was working hard to ensure that arrears to its workers were also cleared.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Govt Expects Cotton Output To Increase - Minister Masuka

The Government has summoned the Cotton Company of Zimbabwe (COTTCO) officials to explain why the company is delaying paying the US$6.8 million the company owes cotton farmers, reported <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200019469/govt-summons-cottco-over-us68-million-debt">NewsDay</a>.
Speaking during Parliament’s question and answer session last week, Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development Minister Anxious Masuka said the Government expects COTTCO to clear the outstanding US$6.8 million owed to farmers before the end of this month. He said:
<blockquote>
The government is concerned by the delayed payments, which is why we summoned COTTCO officials to get an understanding of why these delays are persisting when others have almost completed paying their contracted growers.
We take their word as COTTCO that they will be able to make good on the outstanding US$6.8 million to farmers before the end of this month as they are now able to sell the cotton.
We had meetings with companies that help farmers like the Zimbabwe Farmers Union and others, we will be supervising as Government so that farmers get the necessary inputs and are paid early if they deliver their cotton.
</blockquote>
Last month, COTTCO chief executive officer, <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2023/10/21/cottco-owes-cotton-farmers-millions-of-us-dollars/">Priscilla Mutembwa said that efforts were underway to pay all farmers’ outstanding payments</a> before the onset of the 2022/23 summer cropping season.
Mutembwa COTTCO had paid $16.7 million to farmers, out of $23 million owed, adding that the company was working hard to ensure that arrears to its workers were also cleared.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Govt Summons COTTCO Over US$6.8 Million Owed To Cotton Farmers

The Government has allowed farmers to import fertilisers directly from suppliers outside the country as the product is in short supply locally ahead of the 2023/2024 summer cropping season.
Speaking during the post-cabinet media briefing in Harare on Tuesday, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Jenfan Muswere said the local fertiliser industry is facing challenges and is unable to meet demand. He said:
<blockquote>
The local fertilizer industry is having challenges and the supply gap is being covered largely by imports.
The current fertilizer stocks held by the Zimbabwe Fertilizer Manufacturers Association (ZFMA) and those under the Collateral Management Agreement (CMA) have indicated that they have challenges meeting the surging demand ahead of the imminent summer season.
Meanwhile, the Government has approved that farmers import fertilizers directly from suppliers outside the country to augment local supplies whilst the Government develops a long-term solution to the fertilizer challenges.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe’s national demand for fertilizers is estimated at 400,000 metric tonnes of basal and 380,000 metric tonnes of top dressing per annum for both the summer and winter cropping seasons.
Last month,  <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/eu-blocks-zim-fertiliser-consignment">The Sunday Mail</a> reported that around 23,000 tonnes of fertiliser donated to Zimbabwe by Russia have been blocked by the European Union (EU) due to its agricultural export blockade on Russia.
Muswere also said that the Government was allowing the importation of cement due to shortages in the market, which have caused hikes in the product’s price.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zimbabwe Allows Farmers To Import Fertiliser To Plug Shortages

The Grain Marketing Board (GMB) has failed to pay farmers the outstanding ZWL$54 billion several months after they sold grain to the parastatal.
With the 2023/24 summer cropping season just around the corner, GMB’s failure to pay farmers has likely hampered preparations for the new season.
Zimbabwe Farmers Union (ZFU) executive director Paul Zakariya said the issue of delayed payments has negatively impacted farmers’ cash flow. <a href="https://businesstimes.co.zw/anxiety-as-gmb-fails-to-pay-farmers/">Business Times</a> quoted Zakariya as saying:
<blockquote>
We are at a stage where farmers would require to ensure that cash flows continue to be positive on the farms and that they meet other expenses like labour costs and repairs to machinery and equipment as well as ensuring that the farms are ticking so these delayed payments have actually become quite a bother on many operations.
</blockquote>
Last week, GMB finance director Clemence Guta told Parliament that of the outstanding payments, ZWL$ 21 billion was for maize deliveries. Said Guta:
<blockquote>
We have an outstanding balance of ZWL$54bn of which ZWL$21bn relates to maize deliveries and we got US$ 25mn which is outstanding as well about US$ 8.7mn relates to traditional grains with the balance being for wheat deliveries…
We are continuously pursuing the Treasury so that they release funds so that our farmers are able to go back to the fields.
</blockquote>
He also said the GMB has started inputs for the Presidential input scheme but was lagging behind in terms of payments to transporters.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

GMB Fails To Pay Farmers

Around 23,000 tonnes of fertiliser donated to Zimbabwe by Russia have been blocked by the European Union (EU) due to its agricultural export blockade on Russia. This blockade was implemented in response to the conflict in Ukraine, <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/eu-blocks-zim-fertiliser-consignment">The Sunday Mail</a> reported. Last year, several developing countries, including Zimbabwe, were supposed to receive a share of 260,000 tonnes of fertiliser from Russia’s Uralchem-Uralkali for free. Malawi and Kenya have already received their share through the United Nations World Food Programme, but Zimbabwe and Nigeria have not due to the EU’s tightening blockade.
The EU has imposed sanctions on Russia, including prohibiting the export of fertiliser, in an attempt to pressure Moscow into resolving its conflict with Ukraine. However, Russia argues that blocking the export of fertiliser to countries in need is hypocritical and goes against the EU’s claim that sanctions do not apply to Russian fertiliser and food exports. Russian exporters also face obstacles and high fees due to the sanctions. In a statement last week, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation said 96,000 tonnes of fertiliser are currently stuck in EU ports. Read the statement in part:
<blockquote>
As part of the Russia-UN Memorandum on September 7, 2022 . . . Russia took the initiative to send 262 000 tonnes of mineral fertilisers blocked in the ports of Latvia, Estonia, Belgium and the Netherlands as humanitarian aid to the poorest countries . . . Since then, however, only two deliveries have been completed.
The release of three other planned shipments — to Nigeria (34 000 tonnes), Zimbabwe (23 000 tonnes) and Sri Lanka (55 000 tonnes) — has been stalled, despite the fact that all preparatory procedures have been completed.
</blockquote>
Russia is unable to pay for services after being cut off from the SWIFT interbank messaging system, and it claims that the blockade of Russian produce at EU ports is illegal. The fertiliser blockade has also affected the UN-brokered Black Sea grain deal between Russia and Ukraine, which aimed to facilitate the delivery of Ukrainian grain to world markets in exchange for removing Western barriers on Russian agricultural exports.
Russia is a major global producer of fertiliser, accounting for a significant portion of global exports of potash, ammonia, and urea. The situation highlights the ongoing tensions and consequences of the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, as well as the impact of international sanctions on agricultural trade.
The blockade will likely affect Zimbabwe’s agriculture sector considering that the southern African country does not produce enough fertiliser on its own. In Zimbabwe, there are several fertiliser-producing companies, including Windmill, Zimbabwe Fertilizer Company (ZFC), Sable Chemical Industries, and Zimbabwe Phosphate Industries (ZimPhos). Windmill is known for producing compound fertilisers with a capacity of approximately 50,000 metric tonnes per year. ZFC is a leading manufacturer of compound fertilisers, ammonium nitrate, and urea, with a production capacity of over 100,000 metric tonnes annually. Sable Chemical Industries specializes in ammonium nitrate production, with a capacity of around 240,000 metric tonnes per year. ZimPhos is involved in the manufacture of phosphate-based fertilisers, but the combined output falls short of the required amounts. 
Due to this shortfall in fertiliser production, the government of Zimbabwe has allowed the importation of fertilisers to meet the required amounts. This decision was made to reduce input costs and boost grain production ahead of a farming season that may be affected by adverse El Nino weather conditions. The high prices of fertilisers in the past two years, caused by natural gas price increases and the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, have made it difficult for farmers in Zimbabwe. Therefore, the government suspended import duties on nitrogenous fertiliser this October and will allow the duty-free import of up to 250,000 metric tons of urea and ammonium nitrate. Despite recent improvements in maize production, food insecurity remains a challenge in Zimbabwe, and many households still rely on aid for their food needs.
<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a>

EU Has Blocked Donation Of 23,000 Tonnes Of Fertiliser From Russia To Zimbabwe

The Government has urged wheat farmers to speed up harvesting their crop to avoid losses from rains expected in the first week of November, reported <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/new-speed-up-harvesting-farmers-urged">The Sunday Mail</a>.
The Chief director (agricultural engineering, mechanisation, post-harvest agro-processing and soil conservation) in the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development Engineer Edwin Zimunga said:
<blockquote>
We are urging all wheat farmers to expedite harvesting of their winter wheat crops by all means available.
We have created combine harvesters clusters countrywide, where farmers can access efficient service.
Farmers need to get in touch with local leadership to organise and schedule harvesting and grain drying services immediately to save the winter wheat.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe expects to harvest a record 430 000 tonnes of wheat this year at a time the annual national demand for the cereal stands at 360 000 tonnes.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Govt Urges Farmers To Expedite Wheat Harvesting

The presidential agricultural inputs scheme through which communal farmers receive free seed and fertiliser from the Government under Pfumvudza / Intswasa has gobbled ZW$828 billion from the 2023 National Budget.
This was said by the Chief Finance Officer in the Ministry of Lands and Agriculture Peter Mudzamiri while presenting the ministry’s 2024 budget expectations before parliament’s lands committee on Wednesday. Mudzamiri was quoted by <a href="https://www.zimlive.com/presidential-inputs-gobble-800-billion-government-funds/">ZimLive</a> as saying:
<blockquote>
In the 2023 budget, the compensation of employees took $97 billion, CBZ bank guarantee took $69 billion, the Grain Marketing Board (GMB) strategic grain reserve took $132 billion, Zimbabwe agriculture commodity exchange we invested $200 million in that organisation.
Agriculture finance cooperation took $5.5 billion and then the presidential input programme took about $828 billion.
</blockquote>
The money spent on the presidential agricultural inputs scheme was more than the funds spent on key projects such as the construction of dams. Added Mudzamiri:
<blockquote>
Dam construction took $224 billion, the rest of the other ministry land items took $227 billion, the total of all these is $1.5 trillion.
</blockquote>
Critics say the presidential input scheme is a strategy by the ZANU PF party to ingratiate itself with the rural populace in an attempt to prolong its rule.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Govt Spent $800 Billion On Free Presidential Inputs In 2023

The Grain Marketing Board (GMB) and the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) have launched an operation to combat the misappropriation of farming inputs meant to be distributed to smallholder farmers countrywide under the Presidential Inputs Programme.
GMB chief executive officer Edson Badarai told <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/22-arrested-over-pfumvudza-inputs-theft">State media</a> that nearly 90 tonnes of fertiliser have been recovered while 22 arrests have been made and five armed robberies involving Presidential inputs have been recorded since distribution began.
Some of the criminals are reportedly diverting the inputs for resale on the black market. Said Badarai:
<blockquote>
The GMB is carrying out a blitz in conjunction with law enforcement agencies to recover inputs being sold on the black market.
The blitz has so far led to the recovery of 89.4 tonnes of fertilisers that had been diverted to the black market from the Presidential Inputs Programme.
The blitz is meant to destroy the market for the inputs and make them unfavourable to dealers…
Five cases of robbery involving inputs have been recorded, bringing a new dimension to criminality, which in previous years only involved unscrupulous beneficiaries.
To prevent such incidents, inputs are accompanied from GMB depots to the wards by a team, including GMB staff, extension officers and members of the ZRP.
</blockquote>
Meanwhile, five suspected thieves were arrested recently after they stole agricultural inputs worth US$30 000 from a Grain Marketing Board (GMB) depot.
The gang of five reportedly stormed a GMB depot at Charandura in Chirumanzu and stole 540 bags of compound D fertilizer and 17 bags of shelled ground nuts which they then loaded into their truck.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

GMB Launches Blitz To Recover Stolen Free Presidential Inputs

The Cotton Company of Zimbabwe (COTTCO) says it still owes farmers about 30 percent of payment for deliveries made by farmers last season, reported <a href="https://newziana.co.zw/2023/10/19/cottco-working-to-clear-farmers-debt-official/">New Ziana</a>.
Speaking to journalists recently, COTTCO chief executive officer, Priscilla Mutembwa said that efforts were underway to pay all farmers’ outstanding payments before the onset of the 2022/23 summer cropping season. She said:
<blockquote>
We are trying to improve the production as well as how we can be more prepared to be able to work better with the farmers in terms of input distribution and farmer payments.
We still owe some farmers about 30 percent of the amount that has been delivered which we are currently working on very vigorously with both the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe and our partner banks as well as the Ministry of Finance.
</blockquote>
Mutembwa said to date, COTTCO has paid $16.7 million to farmers, out of $23 million owed, adding that the company was working hard to ensure that arrears to its workers are also cleared.
She said COTTCO has not yet distributed free Pfumvudza/Intwasa cotton inputs to farmers around the country. Said Mutembwa:
<blockquote>
We have not started the distribution of free inputs, but we have prepared as much as we can; we normally distribute after the end of October, we are also waiting for some of the inputs to arrive, so we are not too late. We are currently working on making sure that we are prepared.
</blockquote>
Some farmers in cotton-growing areas such as Muzarabani and Gokwe have abandoned the crop due to low prices and late payment for their deliveries by COTTCO.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

COTTCO Owes Cotton Farmers Millions Of US Dollars

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) and Pan African seed company SEEDCO have launched a joint operation to combat the proliferation of fake maize seed ahead of the 2023/24 summer cropping season.
In a statement released this Monday, 16 October, ZRP spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi said they have recorded cases of some shops and individuals selling counterfeit maize seed. Said Asst Comm Nyathi:
<blockquote>
The forthcoming farming season has started with a flurry of activities as farmers, seed houses, agricultural experts and traders prepare for related activities.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police has recorded cases of traders and individuals who are openly selling fake and counterfeit maize seed to unsuspecting potential farmers. Some of the maize seed is being sold through informal markets and hardware shops in various parts of the country.
SEEDCO has also been affected as unscrupulous syndicates are selling fake and counterfeit maize seed packaged with material and logo resembling the company’s trademark and brand, obviously, this being done to lure customers.
Some of the traders are even offering prices that are lower than the original certified seed normally found in established outlets and hardwares.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police has therefore seen it fit to embark on a joint operation with SEEDCO agronomists to identify fake or counterfeit maize seed throughout the country.
The police will enforce provisions of the Seed Act, Chapter 19:13 and ensure that the law takes its course on individuals, syndicates and traders found selling fake or counterfeit maize seed.
Farmers are urged to cooperate with Police and SEEDCO officials and assist in the identification of fake seed during the forthcoming agricultural season.
The public should feel free to report suspects who are packaging and selling counterfeit maize seed on the following numbers Police General Headquarters Complaints Desk 0242 703631, Harare Operations 0242 748836, Bulawayo Operations 0292 885479, WhatsApp number 0712 800 197.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZRP, SEEDCO In Joint Operation To Combat Selling Of Fake Maize Seed

The Government has set the wheat marketing price for the 2023 agricultural season at US$520.25 per tonne, slightly up from the pre-planting producer price of US$520 per tonne, <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/government-announces-wheat-marketing-price/">reported The Herald</a>.
Wheat farmers will be paid 75% in US dollars for their deliveries, and the remaining 25% will be payable in Zimbabwe dollars.
Speaking during a press conference on the marketing price for winter wheat, Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development Dr Anxious Masuka said:
<blockquote>
The price determination is based on the approved pricing policy which uses a standardised maize production model, cost plus pricing model, an average yield level of 4.8 tonnes per hectare and 15 percent margin above breakeven price.
Submissions from various stakeholders are also taken into consideration. Up to 80 percent of wheat production costs are in USD.
</blockquote>
Masuka said the Grain Marketing Board (GMB) will purchase all wheat financed under the Presidential Input programme as well as by the self-financed farmers and will be the buyer of last resort.
He said contractors may arrange to sell to GMB.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Govt Sets Wheat Marketing Price At US$520 Per Tonne

Experts predict that Zimbabwe is likely to experience normal to below-normal rainfall in the upcoming cropping season due to the El Niño phenomenon affecting Southern Africa. Farmers are advised to take early planting measures, opt for short-season maize varieties, and cultivate drought-resistant and early-maturing crops.
The El Niño phenomenon often brings delayed and erratic rains, negatively impacting crops and livestock. El Niño is a weather phenomenon characterised by the warming of the Pacific Ocean’s surface waters. It disrupts normal weather patterns, causing changes in rainfall, temperature, and ocean currents worldwide. It can lead to droughts, floods, and impacts on agriculture, ecosystems, and human lives.
<h3>What farmers should do:</h3>
According to Mr. Paul Zakariya, the executive director of the Zimbabwe Farmers Union (ZFU), it is important for farmers to have access to information about the El Niño phenomenon to plan effectively. He stated that Zimbabwe has experienced El Niño-induced droughts in the past, and it is crucial to learn from those experiences. The <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/el-nino-threat-what-zim-farmers-should-do">Sunday Mail</a> quotes him as saying:
<blockquote>
What we used in the past is what we should use, but if that did not work, we should try new things. In practice, we need to have weather information ready for the farmers, and that information should be area-specific so that farmers know exactly what time to plant in their area, what type of seeds they should plant in their area and the levels of rainfall.
Beyond that, we need to ensure, since it is not the first time, that we have started to prepare ourselves for mitigation, such as the utilisation of water bodies that we have to irrigate our crops and during long dry spells to supplement with irrigation.
</blockquote>
He also said farmers should be informed about the availability of short-season crop varieties to adapt their farming practices. It is important to invest in irrigation infrastructure and encourage smallholder farmers to purchase portable irrigation equipment. This enables year-round production, ensuring food security and sustainability in agriculture.
According to agriculture expert Dr. Renneth Mano, when Zimbabwe has an 80 percent chance of experiencing El Niño-induced drought and crop failure, farmers should consider planting different crops than their usual choices. He also said:
<blockquote>
– Farmers must avoid planting the same mix of grains and oilseeds in drought-prone seasons. 
– Local varieties of sorghum and millet are more drought-tolerant than hybrid maize. 
– Sunflower seeds and groundnuts are more resilient to drought than soybeans. 
– Farmers should consider the risk of drought-induced crop failure when projecting profits per dollar spent on crops. 
– Adding weather-indexed crop insurance to input loan agreements is recommended for dryland commercial farmers. 
– Agricultural extension officers and banks can assist farmers in selecting suitable weather-indexed insurance policies. 
– Climate-smart agriculture involves choosing the right crop mix for drought years and understanding which risks to bear and which to outsource to insurance companies.
</blockquote>
According to Mr. Walter Rusike, a communal farmer in Mashonaland East province, many farmers in his area have been advised to adopt government-sponsored climate-proof agricultural practices like <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Pfumvudza/Intwasa_Farming_Concept/">Pfumvudza/Intwasa</a>. Additionally, some farmers are considering dry planting, which involves sowing seeds and waiting for rainfall.
Climate change has increased the frequency and severity of droughts, posing a threat to food security. To address this, Zimbabwe initiated a seven-year project worth US$47 million in 2020. With support from the Green Climate Fund and the United Nations Development Programme, the project aims to enhance climate resilience in vulnerable communities. 
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Zimbabwe Expects Nor­mal To Below-normal Rainfall: What Farmers Should Do

A wildfire destroyed hundreds of citrus trees at a farm owned by self-exiled former ZANU PF Politburo member Saviour Kasukuwere in Mazowe.
Posting on X on Tuesday, Kasukuwere accused the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) of failing to enforce a High Court order to remove illegal occupants from his far. He said:
<blockquote>
It never rains but pours: A huge fire has destroyed my prime citrus plant at Concorpia Farm, Mazowe.
Against all legal efforts to remove the invader, the ZRP has refused to enforce an HC order.
For now, we are yet to ascertain the motive behind this arson attack.
</blockquote>
Speaking to <a href="https://www.zimlive.com/kasukuwere-loses-100s-of-citrus-trees-in-farm-fire-blames-mnangagwa/">ZimLive</a> from South Africa where he lives in exile, the former ZANU PF Political Commissar claimed the “arson attack” was part of efforts to drive him out of the farm. He said:
<blockquote>
Seventy hectares have been completely destroyed and the infrastructure, including an irrigation system. The land reform has become a curse.
The cruelty we are experiencing is beyond comprehension. I never thought one’s country and those you have worked with in life can go to this extent.
</blockquote>
Kasukuwere’s farm was seized by the government and allocated to a Mashonaland Central war veterans’ leader Ephanos Mudzimunye.
The High Court ordered Mudzimunye to leave the farm, but he refused, claiming that he was allocated the land by the late Lands, Agriculture, Water, and Rural Resettlement minister, Perrance Shiri.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Fire Destroys Citrus Trees At Kasukuwere's Farm In Mazowe

Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development Permanent Secretary Dr John Basera said the government is taking decisive action to ensure the country meets its grain production targets for the 2023-2024 summer cropping season, despite the forecast of below-average rainfall.
He said over 360,000 tonnes of agricultural inputs have been mobilised, including seed and fertilizers, to support smallholder farmers under the Climate-Proofed Presidential Input Scheme.
He said with the likelihood of the El Niño weather phenomenon affecting the cropping season, efforts are being made to distribute inputs in advance, rehabilitate irrigation schemes, and promote climate-smart agriculture. Currently, over 203,000 hectares of land are irrigable, and the goal is to cultivate every available irrigable inch with maize, while also incorporating traditional grains like sorghum and pearl millet. The target is to produce 3,512,658 tonnes of cereal, which would meet the country’s consumption requirements. Basera said:
<blockquote>
Government has already started rolling out the summer cropping season plan for the year 2023/2024.
In light of the predicted normal to below-normal rainfall, the Government has adopted a plan of action dubbed AMA — Adaptation, Mitigation, Action.
AMA encompasses a set of initiatives whose thrust focusses on action and deployment of Going4Growth-plus measures as we gear for the 2023/2024 season.
</blockquote>
He added that the government’s measures include fast-tracking the rehabilitation of irrigation infrastructure, implementing the Pfumvudza/Intwasa program nationwide, and promoting climate-smart feed formulations on farms. Basera emphasised cultivating every available irrigable inch of land with maize and intensifying in-field water and moisture harvesting.
He said the government plans to improve season preparedness through early distribution of inputs based on agro-ecological potential. There will be a focus on growing traditional/small grains, and the adoption of good agricultural practices (GAPs) is encouraged for better resilience. Dr. Basera expressed confidence in a productive season, highlighting the importance of timely input distribution. Seed, fertilizers, and agrochemicals are sufficient to support the 2023/2024 summer cropping plan.
According to a report by the Agricultural Advisory and Rural Development Services (AARDS), the authorities have accumulated stocks of:
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>15,569 tonnes of maize seed</li>
<li>15,370 tonnes of sorghum seed</li>
<li>167,022 tonnes of Compound D fertiliser</li>
<li>167,022 tonnes of topdressing fertiliser</li>
</ul>
Seed and fertiliser manufacturers and distributors have indicated readiness for the cropping season. Valley Seeds spokesperson Mr Tich Maponga stated that there is sufficient seed available, with efforts made to process, package, and distribute it efficiently. Fertiliser Seed Grain (FSG) has increased basal fertiliser production and is distributing it to Grain Marketing Board (GMB) depots. Various farmer support programmes have been established, including the National Enhanced Agricultural Productivity Scheme, the Presidential Input Support Programme, and initiatives by the Food Crops Contractors Association and the government’s emergency food production programme.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Government Predicts Low Rainfall, Says It's Taking Action To Ensure Grain Production Targets Are Met

Seed houses and fertiliser companies have started the delivery of Presidential inputs to Grain Marketing Board depots and shops across the country, for onward distribution to farmers ahead of the 2023/24 summer cropping season, reported <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/pfumvudza-inputs-distribution-in-full-swing/">The Herald</a>.
The Government is reportedly targetting 3.5 million households to benefit from the Pfumvudza/Intwasa programme this upcoming season.
The Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Water, Fisheries and Rural Development Minister Anxious Masuka said the early distribution of inputs will boost productivity given that normal to below normal rainfall is expected. He said:
<blockquote>
We are happy to announce that fertiliser, seed maize and other inputs are now in place.
In the face of the anticipated El Nino (phenomenon) we want farmers to use every drop (of rain), so the early disbursement of inputs will go a long way towards boosting productivity.
Apart from the usual Government inputs programme, we are happy to announce that we have NMB Bank coming on board to support 10 000 hectares of crops this summer.
</blockquote>
Masuka said 35 000 tonnes of fertiliser has already been distributed.
Under Pfumvudza, the Government is targeting 250 000ha of sorghum, 126 577ha of maize, 100 000ha of sunflower, 6 230ha of soya beans, 260 000ha of cotton, 7 8120 ha of sugar beans, and 62 500ha of African peas and groundnuts.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Farming Inputs For 2023/24 Summer Season Now In Place - Minister Masuka

More than 1 000 people are reported dead after a strong earthquake of magnitude 6.8 struck central Morocco just before midnight on Friday.
Tremors were felt in several areas of the country from Casablanca to Marrakesh, where many buildings have been destroyed or severely damaged.
Tremors were also reportedly felt in the capital Rabat, some 350km away, as well as Casablanca and Essaouira, as well in neighbouring Algeria.
<a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-66759069">BBC</a> reported that the quake struck at 11.11 PM local time on Friday, with its epicentre in the High Atlas Mountains, 71km southwest of Marrakesh, the fourth largest city in Morocco.
The epicentre is the location on the surface of the Earth directly above where the earthquake starts.
A 4.9 aftershock was recorded 19 minutes after the earthquake.
Many of the victims are believed to be in hard-to-reach mountain areas. Many people are still believed to be under the rubble amid efforts to find and rescue survivors.
Morocco’s interior ministry said the earthquake killed people in the provinces and municipalities of al-Haouz, Marrakesh, Ouarzazate, Azilal, Chichaoua and Taroudant.
At least 1 200 people have been injured according to officials.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

More Than 1 000 Dead As Earthquake Strikes Morocco

Co-Minister of National Healing and Integration in the Government of National Unit (2009 – 2013), Moses Mzila Ndlovu is facing eviction from his farm in Matobo District, reported B-Metro.
Mzila Ndlovu, who claims he has occupied the farm for the past 19 years has approached the High Court challenging the eviction.
In his application filed at the Bulawayo High Court under case number 1760/23 Mzila Ndlovu cited Matobo District Lands officer Johanes Zifudze as the first respondent, the Secretary in the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Water, Fisheries and Rural Development as the second respondent, the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Water, Fisheries and Rural Development, as the third respondent and Officer-in-Charge of Zimbabwe Republic Police-Figtree and the Officer Commanding Zimbabwe Republic Police Matabeleland South as the fourth and fifth respondents respectively.
He also cited the Surveyor General and the Sheriff of Zimbabwe as the sixth and seventh respondents.
In his papers, Mzila Ndlovu stated that he has been in beneficial occupation, use and control of Khami Magazine Farm situated in Matobo District since 2004.
According to the application, the farm was by Deed of Grant, granted by the Queen of the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland to a body corporate going by the name and style of African Explosives and Chemicals Industries (Rhodesia) Limited.
Between 2004 and 2006 the farm found itself under the charge of yet another corporate body, Dyno Nobel Zimbabwe (Private) Limited. The application reads in part:
<blockquote>
Since then applicant has enjoyed undisturbed possession, beneficial use and control of the said property until the 11th of August 2023, when the 1st respondent brought in scores of people into the property, occupied by the applicant, to peg and dish out stands to the said persons, as to arbitrarily evict applicant from the use and control of about 200 hectares of the 360 3163 hectare farm.
</blockquote>
He said Zifudze has continued pegging and parcelling out the farm in question and by doing so Zifudze was exposing him to forcible or arbitrary eviction executed without a court order.
Mzila Ndlovu claimed that at the peak of the Zimbabwe land reform programme, he had already settled at the farm having built a fully-fledged homestead there. He said:
<blockquote>
It had come to my knowledge that such land as a private company was leasing out to me at prohibitive rentals was State land.
I wrote to the office of the governor of Matabeleland South on 12 January 2006 to bring the foregoing revelation to her attention and to protest the corruption and apparent discrimination associated with company officials who had taken charge of the State farm.
After the company aforementioned had run scared of my protestations, it ceased to demand rentals from me and l remained on the farm.
</blockquote>
Mzila Ndlovu further stated that in June this year, he was visited by Zifudze who advised him that he wanted to peg out pieces of land from his farm.
He said on 11 August, Zifudze presented himself with scores of other persons to begin pegging and parcelling the farm. The occupants are allegedly members of the Zimbabwe Republic Police from Figtree.
Mzila Ndlovu said Zifudze, the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Water, Fisheries and Rural Development and its permanent secretary have always been aware of his presence at the farm since 2004 and regarded him as their tenant.
The matter was yet to be set down for hearing.
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