By Elvis Dumba
Banket, Zimbabwe – The First Lady of the Republic of Zimbabwe, Dr Auxilia Mnangagwa, has intensified efforts to promote household food security through the distribution of sorghum seed to women farmers in Zvimba North Constituency.
The donation forms part of the First Lady’s nationwide small grains farming campaign aimed at encouraging climate-smart agriculture and strengthening food security at household and community level.
Addressing beneficiaries on behalf of Dr Mnangagwa, the Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Mashonaland West Province, Hon Marian Chombo, described the initiative as a timely and strategic intervention.
“The Mother of the Nation’s donation of sorghum seed will significantly enhance household food security and empower women to take a leading role in sustainable agricultural production,” said Hon Chombo.
She urged communities to embrace small grains farming, noting its resilience to erratic rainfall patterns and its contribution to improved nutrition.
“We must prioritise household food security through sustainable farming practices. Small grains are key to building resilience against climate change and ensuring that families have nutritious food on the table,” she added.
Women farmers who received the seed expressed appreciation for the gesture. One of the beneficiaries, Ms Pretty Mugwagwa, said the support would make a meaningful difference in their livelihoods.
“We are grateful to the First Lady for this support. These sorghum seeds will help us feed our families and contribute to national food security. We are committed to making this programme a success,” she said.
The seed distribution programme was attended by government officials, traditional leaders and representatives from the Zimbabwe Farming Network Initiative Trust, which complemented the initiative by donating maize seed and fertiliser to 200 women farmers in the constituency.
The sorghum seed donation is expected to benefit more than 500 households in Zvimba North, with similar distributions set to be rolled out in other parts of the country.
The First Lady continues to call upon all stakeholders to work together in promoting food security and improving the livelihoods of Zimbabweans.
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