By Tafara Pande
MASVINGO — ZANU PF Masvingo Provincial Secretary for Mines, Mr. Petros Mutema, spoke passionately to our news crew this Sunday about his farming ventures, underscoring agriculture’s vital role in driving food security, economic empowerment, and national development under Vision 2030.
Mr. Mutema highlighted that farming remains central not only to family sustenance but also to provincial and national growth.
“Agriculture is the backbone of our economy. It is through farming that we fight hunger, create jobs, and empower households,” he said.
Speaking from his farm, he noted his dedication to maize, groundnuts, and cattle rearing, pointing out that his work aligns with President Mnangagwa’s vision of leaving no one behind. He credited government support programs such as Pfumvudza/Intwasa for enabling smallholder farmers to achieve better yields.
“Our goal is not just to produce for consumption but also for the market. The surplus we generate feeds into local industries and boosts our provincial economy,” Mr. Mutema explained. He emphasized the importance of modern farming methods and irrigation to counter climate change challenges.
Despite success, he acknowledged hurdles such as erratic rainfall, high input costs, and the menace of drug abuse among rural youth, which threatens labor availability. He urged communities to work together in tackling these issues.
Mr. Mutema expressed optimism that with continued government support and community resilience, Masvingo will not only achieve food security but also become a leading contributor to Zimbabwe’s economic revival. “With unity and hard work, Vision 2030 is within our grasp,” he concluded.
