By Violet Mashonga
The Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development has launched the Presidential Input Scheme handover ceremony at the Faith Panganai Mupawaenda Homestead in Mhondoro-Ngezi District.
The event, held in Mamhovha Village, was officiated by the Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Mashonaland West, Hon. Marian Chombo, who served as Guest of Honour.
Speaking at the ceremony, Deputy Director Passmore Nyamadzawo—who was also the Acting Provincial Director—said the initiative aims to strengthen national food security through the Pfumvunza/Intwasa conservation farming programme, particularly in Ward 3 of Mhondoro-Ngezi.
In her address, Minister Chombo expressed satisfaction with progress in the district, noting increased uptake of Pfumvunza/Intwasa.
“Most areas are now taking Pfumvunza/Intwasa as a way of farming,” she said. “The Government is offering support through the provision of inputs for three plots, as indicated by Deputy Director Nyamadzawo.”
She urged communities to fully embrace the programme, highlighting its potential to boost yields and mitigate climate change effects.
“Let us all take this programme as our farming model,” she said. “What are you doing while others are making progress?”
The Minister also stressed environmental protection, raising concern over veld fires in Mashonaland West.
“Let us try by all means to protect our grasses,” she said. “These can feed our cattle and livestock, and serve as mulch to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.”
Local farmer Mrs Mupawaenda shared her experience, praising the initiative for transforming her livelihood.
“I give thanks to the President for this opportunity,” she said. “It has improved my lifestyle, and I now take farming seriously. I urge others to follow advice from agritex officers because it truly helps.”
District Agritex Officer Ms Nola Marumbwa encouraged farmers to work closely with extension officers to ensure higher productivity.
“Let us all work together to produce better yields,” she said. “Farmers should follow agritex guidance for improved outcomes.”
Mashonaland West produces more than 600 metric tonnes of wheat annually, and the Ministry is currently seeking buyers.
Farmers are also expected to benefit from the Pfumvunza Cotton programme following last season’s production.
Additionally, the Ministry is rolling out solar-powered pumps, drip irrigation systems, and establishing Village Business Units (VBUs) to enhance rural agricultural productivity.
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