Matobo farmers welcome rains, fear damage and losses

By Staff Reporter

After a prolonged dry spell, farmers in Matobo District, Matabeleland South, are breathing a sigh of relief as the recent rains have brought much-needed water to their parched fields. However, the heavy downpours are feared to caused damage and loss to crops and livestock.

The experiences of some farmers from Matobo District highlight the complexities of farming in a region prone to unpredictable weather patterns. While the rains have brought relief, they also underscore the need for farmers to adapt and diversify their crops to mitigate the effects of climate change.

Sasha Ndebele from Hlababomvu village, under Chief Bidi, expressed her gratitude for the rains.

“We are happy for the rains because we had lost hope. Our water table had been so low, and we were out of ideas on how we were going to survive,” she said.

However, Ndebele also reported that some houses were destroyed, and livestock were trapped in the mud, resulting in significant losses.

Humphrey Mthunzi, a farmer from Bidi village, echoed Ndebele’s sentiments. While he welcomed the rains, he noted that the excessive water was affecting his crops.

“As a horticulture and agriculture farmer, I’m experiencing difficulties. The weeds are overcoming the crops, and there’s no chance for maintenance. Vegetables like carrots and cabbages are rotting from the heavy rains,” he shared.

Another farmer, Tania Chiwa from Mazwi village, under Chief Malaba, reported that the rains had affected her crops significantly, and she expected lower yields.

“The rain is too much. We haven’t even finished planting, and it’s no longer workable. Some crops are turning yellow, which will affect our yields,” she said.

Founder of Clive Goat Breeders, Theophilus Tendai Ncube, said the rains were a great benefit for livestock farmers.

“As a farmer keeping cattle and goats, I can say that it is a great benefit to us because for the past three years we went through a very painful time as we were losing our livestock,” he said.

Farming expert Khulekani Dube advised farmers to adapt to the changing weather patterns.

“Farmers must grow small grains like sorghum, millet, and rapiki during dry seasons, while planting maize during seasons with plenty of rain.”

Another farming expert, Admire Vundla from Sihayi village, encouraged farmers to use manure and fertilizers when rains are promising.

“When there are promising rains, we encourage farmers to use manure and fertilizers to reduce logging. We also encourage the use of resistant varieties, which are strong and stable, similar to medium-maturity crops.”

Farmers have been advised that due to ongoing rains and sandy soils in some areas of the District, it is necessary to replenish the leached nutrients, as observations indicate signs of nutrient depletion.