By Edson Mapani/ Simbarashe Sithole in Beatrice
Farmers in Seke distrct Mashonaland East province have been encouraged to grow sorghum in a bid to mitigate climate change.
Sorghum farmers and agricultural expects from Matebeleland and other provinces gathered at Goldlands, farm in Beatrice, on Friday to share ideas on sorghum farming at a field day.
Speaking on the sidelines of the event Zadzamatura Managing director Dr Daniel Myers said they nvited farmers from around Zimbabwe to come and see the sorghum Marcia variety they are showcasing because of the droughts that the country is facing.
” Today, we have a special day in Seke District, where we are showcasing Marcia. Given all the change in the weather pattern we have brought farmers from Matebeland and all corners of Zimbabwe to learn about Marcia because of the droughts that we are facing especially going into next year where the season is going to be below normal.”.
Dr Myers added that farmers should try Marcia sorghum to mitigate against the drought.
“Going forward, these are the crops that farmers should try so that they mitigate against these droughts.Marcia is tolerant to drought and it can also be used as stockfeed, mealie-mealie and also as forage for animals,”.
The field day host, Mr Martin Matsa said after realising the uncertainties that are associated with low rainfall,theft and vandalisation of irrigation equipment he had decided migrate to traditional grains.
“After facing challenges with vandalisation and theft of irrigation equipment and above all, the mid season dry spells occasioned by climate change I decided to put 30 hectares under sorghum, Marcia variety to be particular from Zadzamatura.I don’t regret the decision which I made.It is bearing sweet fruits as you can see,” said a elated for with a smile creasing his face.
Mr Handson Mutsvagwa, the Seke District Agritex Head weighed noting that timing is of paramount importance when planting sorghum and he also encouraged the use of remote controlled eagles to scare away birds such as quelea birds that predominantly attacks the crop.