Tawanda Mangoma in Chiredzi
Masvingo’s quest to improve food security has received a timely boost after Lowveld sugar producer Tongaat Hulett Zimbabwe (THZ) agreed to commit 320 hectares for the production of winter maize this year, at its plantations at Hippo Valley and Triangle estates.

Planting of the maize is now at an advanced stage.

The maize will be grown under a partnership between the sugar-producing behemoth and the Masvingo Development Trust, a private entity founded by Zanu-PF Politburo member Cde Josaya Hungwe to identify quick-win projects that generate revenue for the trust.

Addressing parliamentarians under the Portfolio Committee on Mines and Energy Development recently, Acting THZ managing director Mr Aiden Mhere said the sugar milling giant was now at an advanced stage with planting this year’s winter maize crop.

“We are delighted to notify this House that as Tongaat Hulett Zimbabwe, we will be embarking on yet another production of winter maize on more than 320ha which will be fallow for sugarcane production,” he said.

“Through the guidance of the Provincial Affairs Minister Cde (Ezra) Chadzamira, we will plant again the winter maize which will help in reducing hunger in Masvingo Province due to recurring droughts.”