By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
Traditional crops are emerging as a beacon of hope for communal farmers in Beitbridge Region 5B, where dry conditions have long posed challenges to cropping productivity.
Farmers are now turning to open dryland production under the Pfumvudza/Intwasa conservation farming approach, transforming livelihoods and strengthening food security.
This was highlighted during a Field Day held on Friday in Swereki Village, Beitbridge West Ward 9, Beitbridge West.
The event ran under the theme “Food Security and Sovereignty: Emphasizing the Role of Traditional Crops.”
The host farmer, Phathutshedzo Moyo, showcased her successful three-hectare sorghum field, grown with support from Agritex and its extension officers.
Through the programme, she received seeds and fertilizers, enabling her to fully implement Pfumvudza principles in her farming.
Speaking at the event, Guest of Honour and Beitbridge West Member of Parliament Thusani Ndou, commended the initiative and encouraged wider participation among farmers.
“Suppose everyone adopts this programme, it means food challenges would be significantly reduced in our communities. We are pleased to see government support, through Agritex, being put into practice. This is improving livelihoods across the constituency,” he said.
He further urged farmers to come on board and take advantage of the programme.
Agritex Acting District Agricultural Officer, Opheus Ndlovu, emphasized the importance of growing small grains such as sorghum and millet, particularly in drought-prone regions like Beitbridge.
“Traditional grains are well-suited to our climatic conditions. When farmers apply Pfumvudza concepts, they can achieve higher yields even under low rainfall. What we are seeing here at Moyo’s field is proof that the method works,” he said.
Moyo also shared her experiences with fellow farmers, highlighting the benefits of conservation farming and traditional crops.
“I have learned that with proper techniques and support, even in dry regions like ours, we can produce enough food. I am grateful to Agritex for the knowledge and inputs they have provided,” she said.
The Field Day demonstrated how combining indigenous crops with climate-smart farming techniques can help communities achieve food security and resilience in the face of changing weather patterns.