Urban agric boosts food security: Agritex
Agritex has encouraged urbanites to take part in agriculture and boost the food security situation.
Speaking at a field day at Gogo Mary Rakata’s plot in Harare North, Agritex officer Mr Elisha Dube said urban farmers had planted 7 655 hectares of maize, 124,4ha of sugar beans and 366ha of tobacco this season.
Urban farmers also grew 883ha of soyabeans and 402ha of Irish potatoes.
“Last year, the average yield per hectare of maize was five tonnes and now it is slightly above 5,5 tonnes.
“We are glad that this year urban farmers managed to procure inputs from the Grain Marketing Board totalling 180 tonnes of urea fertiliser,” Mr Dube said.
He said urban agriculture encouraged greenbelt maintenance, generation of income and balanced diets.
Farmers were also advised to attend field days to share ideas and experiences.
Gogo Rakata was adjudged the best urban farmer in her area after a bumper maize crop.
Pioneer Seed Company regional sales agronomist for the northern region Mr Simba Gotosa said: “She carried out all the necessary agronomic practices on time and that is why she had the best crop.”
Gogo Rakata said: “I always make sure I apply fertiliser at the correct time and weeding is one of the best ways to increase yields.
“Weeds compete with crops for food so the field has to be free of the unwanted plants all the time.”
Harare Metropolitan Governor David Karimanzira encouraged all urban farmers to be dedicated and work hard to ensure food security.
l In the picture, Harare Metropolitan Governor Cde David Karimanzira (centre) admires the maize crop at Plot 8, Lomagundi Road in the company of plot owner Gogo Rakata (left) and Pioneer regional sales agronomist (northern region) Mr Simba Gotosa.