Zimbabwe: Farmers urged to guard against post-harvest losses

Farmers in Zimbabwe’s Zaka District have been urged to adopt new grain storage technologies and granary models in order to reduced post-harvest losses and improve food security.

The warning comes as the region braces for a poor harvest, following a difficult farming season characterised by low rainfall. 

Zaka’s Agritex officer Felix Gova said grain storage required special attention as many farmers are losing out to pests - such as the larger grain borer - because of poor storage facilities.

“Smallholder farmers in communal areas have been losing grain harvests, especially maize, due to poor storage facilities,” said Mr Gova. 

He advised farmers to use metal silos and super bags, which have been proven to be effective against insects and rodents. 

The Ministry of Lands, Agriculture and Rural Resettlement has also made anti-pest chemicals available and has urged farmers to work closely with field extension officers to gain access to vital supplies.

Photo: The Zimbabwean