Most parts of the country, including Matabeleland region, experienced a prolonged dry spell at the beginning of the year resulting in most crops wilting.
The Ministry of Agriculture, Mechanisation and Irrigation Development last month conducted a countrywide crop assessment exercise to gauge the effects of the dry spell. However, the report of the exercise that ended on March 31 has not been made public.
Matabeleland South governor, Angeline Masuku could not give details on the crop situation in her province this week, referring questions to provincial Agritex officer Bernard Sibanda, who was said to be out of office. Sources, within her office, however, said the situation in Matabeleland South was dire.
“All the seven districts have been severely affected and you will find that in places like Insiza, only three of its 23 wards have a good crop and the rest is a disaster,” the official said.
