Sorghum field day in Mudzi sparks surge in traditional grain farming
On 8 April 2026, Mukota C in Mazonde Village, Ward 9, Mudzi District, was abuzz with activity as farmers and key stakeholders gathered for a successful District Sorghum Field Day. Hosted by Mr and Mrs Chidambaira, the event carried the inspiring theme “Promoting the Growing of Traditional Grains for Food Security Everywhere, Every Day.” It aimed to champion the revitalisation of traditional grain production as a cornerstone of rural food security in Zimbabwe’s drought-prone regions.
The gathering brought together an impressive assembly of agricultural experts and government officials, including the Provincial Deputy Director Mr Makona, District Agricultural Business Advisory Officer (DABAO) Mrs Manhamo, Agricultural Business Advisory supervisors Mr Kajawu, Mrs Chikandiwa, Mr Gurupira, and a host of other district-level officers and stakeholders from prominent organisations such as Seed Co, MASAP, Econet, and Yield Plus.
Showcasing best practice sorghum production
A highlight was the field tour where farmers proudly presented a meticulously maintained one-hectare Macia seed sorghum crop. Demonstrating exemplary agronomic techniques — early planting, correct fertiliser application, effective pest control, and timely weeding — the crop exhibited strong health with an expected yield of two tonnes per hectare, a promising figure for a traditional grain often overshadowed by commercial crops.
Mrs Manhamo underscored the critical importance of early planting, warning that even a brief delay can sharply reduce yields. She further stressed the role of proper crop rotation, diligent record-keeping, and fertiliser use tailored to sorghum’s specific needs as vital for maximising productivity.
Leadership affirming traditional grains’ vital role
In a powerful keynote, Provincial Deputy Director Mr Makona shared that field days like this are pivotal in bridging knowledge to grassroots farmers, playing a transformative role in Zimbabwe’s agricultural landscape.
“Development starts at the household level,” he said, encouraging farmers not only to increase production but also to embrace crop and livestock diversification strategies in harmony with national development blueprints such as Rural Development 8.0 and Vision 2030.
He highlighted traditional grains as resilient crops that bolster food and nutrition security, particularly in Mudzi’s drought-prone agro-ecological zones, while urging farmers to rigorously apply extension advice and participate actively in community schemes such as the grain swap initiative.
Additionally, Mr Makona encouraged farmers to engage fully in district agricultural shows, an avenue to showcase innovation and receive recognition, reinforcing the message that farming in Zimbabwe is evolving into a competitive, market-oriented business.
Empowering farmers through collaboration and recognition
The field day also provided a vibrant platform for stakeholders to promote agricultural inputs and services tailored to support traditional grain production. Exemplary farmers were honoured with practical rewards including fertilisers, seed maize, knapsack sprayers, and wheelbarrows, all tools key to enhancing productivity and operational efficiency on smallholder farms.
This emerging focus on farming as a business marks a welcome shift towards commercialisation, value addition, and market readiness of traditional grain crops – essential ingredients for sustainable rural livelihoods and food sovereignty in Zimbabwe.
The Mudzi Sorghum Field Day illuminated a path forward where traditional grains reclaim their rightful place as pillars of household nutrition, economic empowerment, and climate resilience, inspiring farmers to sow success across Zimbabwe’s rural heartland.
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