Cabinet received an update on preparations for the 2023/2024 Summer Season as presented by the Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, Dr. Anxious J. Masuka.
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The nation is informed that the country is targeting to produce 2 800 000 metric tonnes (mt) of maize, 120 000 mt of soya beans, 150 000 mt of sunflower, 350 000 mt of sorghum, 92 658 mt of pearl millet, and 270 000 mt of cotton during the 2023/2024 summer season.
Production will be under various funding programmes including Pfumvudza/Intwasa, Government-facilitated bank financing, private sector and self-financing.
Seed is readily available for all these crops, with about 40.8% being early to ultra-early maturity varieties.
Government and Seed Associations have released the crop and variety suitability information to assist all stakeholders in the selection of appropriate varieties for their agro ecological zones.
All this information on the suitable varieties per region is available from the nearest Agricultural Extension officers.
Regarding fertilisers, the current local stock stands at 84 146.80mt, and consultations are under way to forestall any shortages.
The nation is informed that there has been substantial progress in the establishment of farmer field schools which enhance farmer training.
Plot preparation under the Pfumvudza/Intwasa programme is being accelerated, with a target to complete three plots per farmer by the extended deadline of 15 November 2023.
The country expects to surpass previous year records. Over 3.8 million plots have already been prepared, which is higher than previous seasons.
A total of 13 628 tractors are available for tillage, and this fleet is sufficient for the targeted area.
The nation is further being informed that some 70 316 hectares has been tentatively committed for maize production under irrigation, with a potential yield of up to 500 000 mt.
Dam storage levels are currently at an average of 78.8% of total capacity.
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