Resilient Harvests: Farming and Agricultural Transformation in Matabeleland South (2020–2025)

## Introduction

Over the past five years, Matabeleland South Province has witnessed significant developments in its agricultural sector, marked by ambitious targets, strategic interventions, and adaptive practices aimed at enhancing productivity and ensuring food security. The primary focus is on drought-tolerant traditional grains, which offer better resilience and yield under such conditions

## Livestock Development

The province has set a bold objective to increase its cattle herd from approximately 600,000 in 2021 to 1.2 million by 2025. This initiative is part of broader efforts to bolster the local economy and contribute to national food and nutrition security. Strategies include improving animal nutrition through pasture green belts and hay baling, with a target of 300,000 bales annually.

## Irrigation Expansion

Recognizing the challenges posed by the region's arid climate, authorities have prioritized expanding irrigated land. The goal is to increase the area under irrigation from 974 hectares to 1,500 hectares by the end of 2025. This expansion aims to mitigate the effects of erratic rainfall and enhance crop production.

## What Farmers Plant During the Season

In Matabeleland South, farmers strategically select crops that are well-suited to the region's semi-arid climate and erratic rainfall patterns. The primary focus is on drought-tolerant traditional grains, which offer better resilience and yield under such conditions.

### Traditional Grains

|Name|Explanation|Picture|
| --- | --- | --- |
|Sorghum|Highly valued for its drought resistance, sorghum thrives in areas with low and unpredictable rainfall. It serves as a staple food and is also used for brewing and livestock feed||
|Millet|Another staple in the region, pearl millet is well-adapted to arid environments and poor soil fertility. Its ability to withstand high temperatures and minimal rainfall makes it ideal for Matabeleland South.millet is cultivated for its nutritional value and adaptability to dry conditions.||
|Maize|While maize is a common crop, its success is heavily dependent on sufficient rainfall. In drier parts of the province, farmers are advised to opt for early-maturing and drought-tolerant maize varieties to mitigate the risk of crop failure.||
|Sunflower|Sunflower cultivation is encouraged due to its relatively short growing season and tolerance to dry spells. The crop provides oilseeds for consumption and sale, offering an additional income stream.||

### Leguminous Crops

|Name|Explanation|Picture|
| --- | --- | --- |
|Ground Nuts|Also known as peanuts, Amazambane, and Nzungu, they grow underground and are a good source of protein, oil, and income. They are widely used for consumption and small-scale trade.||
|Round Nuts|Also called indlubu or _nyimo_, these are traditional legumes rich in protein and highly drought-resistant. Often boiled and eaten as snacks.||
|Cow peas|Drought-tolerant legumes with edible pods and seeds, commonly used in local dishes and animal feed. Improve soil fertility through nitrogen-fixing.||
|Beans (Dry Beans)|These are mature beans harvested in their dry state. They are a staple source of protein and grow well in both rainfed and irrigated systems||
|Sugar Beans|A popular variety of dry beans with a sweeter taste and softer texture. Grown for both household consumption and commercial markets.||
|green veggies|Women play a crucial role in vegetable farming, often managing family plots and contributing to local food production. Their involvement not only enhances agricultural diversity but also empowers them economically and socially within their communities.||