Development starts at home’-Provincial Deputy Director Makona

Farmers in drought-prone Mudzi district have been urged to scale up traditional grain production and treat farming as a business, as the government doubles down on food security interventions under Vision 2030.

“Development starts at household level, and farmers must follow the guidance they receive from extension officers to improve productivity,” said Provincial Deputy Director Mr Makona, delivering the guest speech at a District Sorghum Field Day held last week at Mukota C, Mazonde Village in Ward 9.

P.D.D Makona said that agricultural development begins in every homestead, calling on farmers to adopt crop and livestock diversification in line with Rural Development 8.0.

He also stressed agro-ecological matching, adherence to extension advice, and participation in the grain swap initiative.

The event, hosted by Mr and Mrs Chidambaira under the theme “Promoting the Growing of Traditional Grains for Food Security Everywhere, Every Day,” showcased a one-hectare Macia seed sorghum crop estimated to yield two tonnes per hectare, a demonstration of early planting, proper fertiliser use, pest control and timely weeding.

District Agricultural Business Advisory Officer Mrs Manhamo warned that even slight planting delays can slash yields, urging farmers to keep records, rotate crops and use appropriate fertilisers.

Stakeholders including Seed Co, Zadzamatura, MASAP, Econet, Trendsetter Investments, Easieseeds and Yield Plus marketed inputs and services.

Outstanding farmers walked away with fertilisers, maize seed, a knapsack sprayer and a wheelbarrow.

Makona added that his office will follow up on wards not yet affiliated for the 2026 district show season, urging full participation. “Field days play a critical role in showcasing best practices and ensuring knowledge reaches grassroots level,” he said.