BY STEVE EPHRAEM
CHIPINGE: Commercial hybrid seed breeders have claimed that they have introduced varieties that are climate sensitive. This came out at a zonal agricultural show that was held at Musirizwi in Chipinge East on 8 September 2023.
Addressing delegates, Zadzamatura’s Provincial Agronomist for Manicaland and Masvingo, John Mashava, said that his company has introduced a maize seed that suits all climatic conditions.
“Maize is a staple food in Zimbabwe. Responding to the issue of food security, we have introduced ZS265 which is a medium maturity a maize variety that only needs 130 to 140 days to mature.
“It is a fast grower, drought resilient and ideal for Natural Farming Regions 1 to 4 which has deep root system that is able to tap on leached nutrients. In case of a drought, it catches deep water. During in much rain, it resists cob rotting,” he said.
Speaking on the same occasion, the Provincial Sales and Marketing Agronomist for Klein Karoo (popularly known as K2), Teramai Mhondera indicated that his company pioneered climate sensitivity in hybrid seed breeding.
“We introduced PGS61 which an all rounder, be it drought or much rain. The variety takes an average of 130 to mature and is ideal for most Natural Farming Regions. Since climate is not predictable, this seed variety is beneficial to farmers,” he said.
Agricultural Technical and Extension Supervisor for Chipinge East, Benson Musinake thanked farmers for learning through exhibitions at the show.
“Agricultural shows are all about learning. Farmers learn through seeing, hearing and implementation. Farmers get a platform to interact and exchange of ideas. We are happy that this show has been attended by hundreds of people and had 48 exhibitors from 13 areas,” he said.
The hosts, Musirizwi, scooped the top prize at the show which was graced by guests who include Councillor for rural ward 18, Patience Mlambo, village head Munoirirwa, the heir to Ngungunyana Kingdom, Happy Nxumalo and Member of Parliament for Chipinge East, Lincoln Dhliwayo represented by Chaplin Lameck Madyiwa Dhliwayo.