Dumisani Dube | Harare, Zimbabwe – After weeks of anxiously awaiting the arrival of the rainy season, much-needed significant rainfall has finally begun to fall across most parts of Zimbabwe, bringing a wave of relief to the nation’s farmers. In some regions, single-day rainfall totals have exceeded 60mm, a significant downpour that has significantly alleviated concerns about a potential drought. While the late onset of the rains presents challenges, farmers are cautiously optimistic and eager to capitalize on this much-needed moisture to ensure a successful agricultural season.
The unpredictable nature of the rains, largely attributed to the escalating impacts of climate change, underscores the critical need for farmers to adapt to rapidly changing weather patterns. Fortunately, advancements in agricultural technology are providing farmers with valuable tools to navigate these challenges. AI-powered weather forecasting systems and readily available smartphone applications are empowering farmers to track weather patterns more effectively, enabling them to make informed decisions about planting schedules, optimize resource allocation, and minimize potential losses.
“This year, we’re heavily reliant on weather forecasts,” says Mr. James Chikwanda, a smallholder farmer from Masvingo. “We’re using a weather app on our phones to track rainfall patterns and make informed decisions about when to plant our crops. This technology is invaluable in helping us adapt to the changing climate and improve our chances of a successful harvest.”
In many regions, these January rains mark the official start of the planting season. Farmers are eagerly sowing their seeds, with a strong preference for early-maturing maize varieties. Popular SEEDCO varieties like “Tsoko” and “Tsuro” are particularly favored due to their shorter growing periods, increasing the likelihood of a successful harvest even if the rains recede earlier than anticipated. This is crucial as climate change has increased the risk of shorter rainy seasons and unpredictable weather patterns.
Furthermore, farmers are actively implementing water harvesting techniques such as creating small dams to conserve rainwater and utilizing tied ridges to improve water infiltration and soil moisture retention. These methods complement the conservation agriculture techniques being actively promoted by the government of Zimbabwe through the Intwasa/Pfumvudza program. This program aims to enhance agricultural productivity and resilience by promoting sustainable farming practices that minimize soil erosion, improve soil fertility, and enhance water use efficiency.
This year, more than ever, strategic planning, careful seed selection, and a proactive approach to weather monitoring will be crucial for ensuring a successful harvest and safeguarding food security for Zimbabwe. By embracing technological advancements, implementing sustainable farming practices, and adapting to the changing climate, Zimbabwean farmers can strive towards a more resilient and productive agricultural sector.
Dumisani is the lead consultant at fresh solutions Africa and can be reached via email on freshsolutionsafrica@gmail.com.
Great article