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Writes Violet Mashonga
The sun rises over the fields of Makonde District in Mashonaland West Province, casting a warm glow over the lush green wheat crops. Recently, Provincial Agronomist S. Makaza and District Agronomist T. Marovora embarked on a mission to assess the progress of winter wheat preparations and planting in the district. Their visit took them to Puri Farm, Lionsden Farm, and Upper Romsey Farm, where they evaluated the wheat crop, a major winter crop in the Province. The situation on the ground points to a successful wheat production target.
Mashonaland West Province has a target of 35,000 hectares for wheat across the province for the current 2025 winter farming season. At Puri Farm, the team was impressed to see that all preparations were being done according to Agritex expectations.
The farm had completed the discing and fertilizer application, and planting was scheduled for April 30, 2025. Godfrey, the farm supervisor, revealed that they plan to plant 180 hectares of wheat, having removed maize from the land to practice proper crop rotation. However, the farmers are facing challenges with electricity, and Godfrey appealed to the government for assistance to help them meet their expectations.
At Upper Romsey Farm, the team observed that wheat planting was already underway, with 27 hectares planted and a target of 100 hectares for the season. Meanwhile, at Lionsden Farm, the team noted that wheat and potato planting was going on. The farm had planted 44.5 hectares of wheat using the broadcasting method and expected to plant an additional 12.5 hectares using a seed drill.
However, due to water allocation constraints from the Zimbabwe National Water Authority (ZINWA), the farm would have to limit their wheat planting to 100 hectares to ensure equitable water distribution and prepare for maize and other winter crop planting. For potatoes, the farm had already planted 47 hectares out of a target of 87 hectares, relying on a solar-powered irrigation system.
Some farmers in Makonde District rely on the Shangwe River dam, which supplies water to several farms including Van Ren Seburg, Vandermerwa Zaane, Mr Mapfoche, Mr Taylor Freem, and Nathan Douglas – which is a hub area for wheat production. Despite the challenges, the farmers are performing exceptionally well, adhering to Agritex expectations and guidelines set by the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, and Fisheries.
As the assessment concluded, Provincial Agronomist S. Makaza and District Agronomist Marovora were impressed by the progress made by the farmers in Makonde District. With proper planning, crop rotation, and irrigation management, the district is poised to meet its wheat production targets. The farmers’ dedication to best practices and their willingness to adapt to challenges will undoubtedly contribute to the province’s agricultural success. As the season progresses, it will be exciting to see the impact of these efforts on the region’s food security and economic growth.
