The Sunday Mail
Online Reporter
GOVERNMENT, in partnership with Catholic Relief Services (CRS), has come to the rescue of a Murewa-based farmers’ group, Hove, after donating farming inputs used in the production and processing of Michigan beans and peanuts.
The donation was made under CRS’ Zimbabwe Church Value Chains initiative, which seeks to provide 525 communal farmers with inputs, technical expertise and markets for their produce.
It includes a modern diesel sheller worth US$4 600, which will help farmers speed up the processing of peanuts.
CRS agriculture and livelihoods project officer Mr Silent Taurai said the thrust of the project is to provide farmers with inputs, while sourcing lucrative markets for their produce.
“The goal is to improve sustainable and water-smart agricultural practices and technologies,” he said.
“Our aim is to also provide market linkages, financial services and increased revenue for smallholder farmers.”
Hove marketing agent Ms Mirriam Ruzvidzo said the project has transformed their livelihoods.
“The project is a life-changing,” she said.
“When we were taken to meet with the market, we were told that we need to upscale and start producing as much as possible since the current producers are failing to meet the demand.”
Clerk of court for Chief Mangwende, Mr Costa Gatsi, thanked Government for bringing development to his community.
“Our people have enough knowledge to produce peanuts and beans but do not have the capital or reliable markets. We are so excited that we now grow our produce knowing there is a ready market,” he said.
