Outrage, anger as ISPAAD is cut, revised and delayed

Outrage, anger as ISPAAD is cut, revised and delayed
Outrage, anger as ISPAAD is cut, revised and delayed

The excitement over the forecast of abundant rains this season is giving way to anger and frustration amongst many farmers. The seasonal inputs programme, ISPAAD, has had its budget reduced, its guidelines revised and its arrival in farmers’ hands delayed. Staff Writers, PAULINE DIKUELO, PHATSIMO KAPENG & MBONGENI MGUNI report

By late September in some parts of the country, farmers had already started clearing their fields in anticipation of the cropping season, which traditionally runs from around November to April.

Earlier in September, the Department of Meteorological Services had issued its seasonal forecast indicating that the years of drought the country has experienced would be broken this year by strong rains countrywide.

Editor's Comment
Stakeholders must step up veggie supply

The Ministry of Agriculture, local producers, retailers, and industry associations must work together to overcome the obstacles hindering vegetable production and distribution.This collaborative approach is essential to improve the availability, quality, and affordability of vegetables in the market.Firstly, the Ministry of Agriculture should provide support and guidance to local farmers to enhance their productivity and efficiency. This could...

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