Zimbabwean farmers have been urged to take urgent measures to protect their crops from excessive rainfall as the country continues to experience unpredictable weather patterns linked to climate change.
The Chief Director of the Agricultural Rural Development Advisory Services (ARDAS), Mrs. Magwenzi, issued the call this week, emphasizing the importance of climate-smart farming practices to minimize post-harvest losses and safeguard national food security.
Speaking to farmers, Mrs. Magwenzi highlighted that prolonged rainfall can lead to significant crop damage if precautionary measures are not taken. She encouraged farmers to closely monitor weather forecasts and take advantage of sunny periods to harvest crops, reducing the risk of moisture-related spoilage.
“Timely harvesting is critical during this period,” she said. “Farmers must remain alert and act swiftly when conditions are favorable to avoid unnecessary losses.”
In addition, farmers were advised to store their produce in well-aerated and properly drained cribs to prevent waterlogging. Poor storage conditions, she warned, can accelerate rotting and compromise grain quality, especially for staple crops such as maize.
Mrs. Magwenzi also stressed the importance of removing crops like sorghum from fields as soon as they mature. She recommended drying them in well-ventilated areas to maintain quality and prevent fungal infections that thrive in damp conditions.
To further support farmers, she pointed to the availability of grain drying facilities at Grain Marketing Board silos. These facilities are particularly crucial for maize, which is highly susceptible to moisture damage if not properly dried before storage.
Farmers were also encouraged to seek guidance from Agricultural Business Advisory Officers, who can provide technical support and practical solutions tailored to local conditions. Such collaboration, she noted, is key to strengthening resilience in the face of climate variability.
Zimbabwe’s agricultural sector remains the backbone of the economy, with millions relying on farming for livelihoods. As climate change continues to pose challenges, experts say adopting climate-smart practices is essential to ensure sustainable production and national food security.
The call to action comes at a critical time when farmers are approaching the harvest season, underscoring the need for vigilance, preparedness, and informed decision-making.
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