(HERALD) Farmers exhibiting quality produce: Official

Farmers exhibiting quality produce: Official
Saturday, 20 August 2011 02:00
Agriculture Report.er

Chairman of the agri-produce section, Mr Ivan Craig, yesterday said farmers at this year's Harare Agricultural Show were exhibiting quality produce that could easily compete and fetch premium prices.

Mr Craig said the quality of produce displayed at this year's event which began in the capital yesterday demonstrated the capacity farmers had if they had adequate resources and support.

"This year's produce can be sold to five-star hotels and people will appreciate it.

"We have seen a marked improvement in standards, which I am sure is a result of the spirit of competition prevailing in the farming communities," he said.

Mr Craig said this year there had been a lot of new farmers who had not been competing in previous competitions adding that they had brought in new varieties of crops such as tomatoes and cabbages.

"This year we even have Chinese cabbages on display while there is a lot of quality fruit, vegetables and grains both small and large," commented Mr Craig.

Mr Craig, however, cited transport challenges as the biggest letdown to many farmers as they were failing to mobilise resources to bring their produce for exhibition.
"I appeal to provincial governors to assist the farmers with transport.

"When they come to this event, the farmers would have gone through district and provincial competitions so they will be representing their provinces here.

"Many of the farmers have however, demonstrated a lot of commitment by hiring trucks or even using buses to bring their produce here," said Mr Craig.

He also appealed to industry to participate by donating resources or funds for prizes to motivate farmers and ignite competition.

"This is the biggest stage of the competition and every farmer expects good prizes also, for instance, a small tractor, a planter or any farming implements.

"Most of the farmers want prizes that they can later use in furthering their ambitions so they need good prizes that reflect our appreciation of their efforts," he added.

By midday more than 250 farmers had attended the show and taken part in the exhibitions. More were said to be still coming.

This year 350 farmers are expected to participate. Last year there were 266 farmers.
The show runs until Saturday next week.