Uvhungu-vhungu farmers fear losing maize crop
Small-scale farmers at Uvhungu-vhungu farm in Kavango East are facing uncertainty due to the unavailability of a combine harvester.
Festus Namupala, one of the affected farmers, told Network Media Hub yesterday that their maize was due for harvest in May, but remains uncollected in the field.
“We are afraid buyers might reject the maize because pests are now invading, and the moisture content is dropping,” he said.
Namupala added that wind damage is worsening the situation, and the delay is affecting preparations for the next planting season.
He said although a combine is expected at Vhungu Vhungu, it will only be operational next year and not for the current harvest.
“We need assistance, either from the ministry or through hiring private equipment,” he said.
Ten farmers share the 60-hectare farm, with each working six hectares. Namupala said all are affected and currently harvesting an estimated 6 to 7 tonnes per hectare.
Festus Namupala, one of the affected farmers, told Network Media Hub yesterday that their maize was due for harvest in May, but remains uncollected in the field.
“We are afraid buyers might reject the maize because pests are now invading, and the moisture content is dropping,” he said.
Namupala added that wind damage is worsening the situation, and the delay is affecting preparations for the next planting season.
He said although a combine is expected at Vhungu Vhungu, it will only be operational next year and not for the current harvest.
“We need assistance, either from the ministry or through hiring private equipment,” he said.
Ten farmers share the 60-hectare farm, with each working six hectares. Namupala said all are affected and currently harvesting an estimated 6 to 7 tonnes per hectare.
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