Martha Leboho Masvingo Correspondent
Zimbabwe Super Seeds is set to expand the production of rice in the southern parts of the country after a trial run at Fuve-Panganai Irrigation Scheme in Zaka was successful.

Fuve-Panganai is arguably the biggest irrigation scheme in Zaka.

It specialised in maize and hybrid seed maize production before diversifying into rice.

Addressing farmers during a field day held at Mr Johannes Makonese’s homestead in Village 19 in Gutu recently, Zimbabwe Super seeds managing director Mr Nelson Munyaka said there was huge potential for rice production in the southern region.

He said the region had conditions suitable for rice growing.

“We have made a test run for Nerica rice production at Fuve-Panganai and the results are very encouraging especially for Nerica 3 and 7, which is preferred by farmers for its good taste and aroma and we want to introduce it on the local market,’’ he said.

Mr Munyaka said there was great potential in rice production from wetlands to dry land.

Besides Fuve-Panganai, large-scale rice production is also earmarked for Rupike Irrigation Scheme in Masvingo South.