A survey of chemical companies indicated enough chemical was available to apply two rust sprays to the total crop. However, there is some confusion about the availability of Punch Xtra and we are trying to clear this up. We have asked the Chairman of the Oilseeds Advisory Committee to call a meeting of the recently appointed sub-committee to discuss exports. We hope that this Committee will forward recommendations to the Minister of how exports should be handled ahead of harvesting to allow deals to be struck competitively. Ground nuts Area planted has increased from 750ha to 1 200ha.
Crop is reasonable to good with farmers spraying to control leaf diseases at present.
Short crop and export potential means that there should be no problems marketing the crop. The planting indications are derived through Association surveys and Seed Sales. Given an average season this sector is likely, therefore, to produce 885,800 tonne. Current sentencing makes it profitable to steal maize. Financial constraints caused through delayed payments by the Grain Marketing Board, which lead to significant loss of earnings and the failure by banks to lend money to farms listed for acquisition.