By Takudziridzwa Nyama
A farmer in Siyoga area of Beitbridge, Agnes Mapani has showcased her farming expertise at her field teaching other farmers about a fairly new crop in the area, the Sesame crop.
Mapani is the first farmer at Siyoga to plant Sesame and she grows sesame using the Pfubvunza moisture conserving method. However other farmers around Beitbridge, such as those in Tongwe and Dryhock (Tawula) have been growing sesame since last year.
At a field held at Siyoga, farmer Mapani shared her knowledge with other farmers on planting and harvesting sesame. She advised that sesame seeds should be planted and lightly covered with soil to facilitate easy growth.
“Since sesame seeds are small, they should be covered with a thin layer of soil to facilitate quick germination and sprouting. This approach ensures optimal seedling growth and sets the stage for a successful harvest.”
She further said that Sesame should be harvested in the morning.
“Sesame is typically harvested in the morning to prevent it from shattering in the sun.This careful timing helps preserve the quality of the sesame seeds and prevents losses.”
Sesame is an export which also has a local market. It is also a versatile crop used in various ways, sesame oil, sesame seeds in rice dishes, baking decorations on cakes), and more.