Mnangagwa's agric plan inspires Tungwarara's farmi...

Mnangagwa's agric plan inspires Tungwarara's farming excellence

Nyashadzashe Ndoro

Chief Reporter

Presidential Advisor Paul Tungwarara's farm in Chegutu has become a model for integrated agricultural production, successfully integrating maize cultivation, fish farming, poultry rearing, and animal husbandry.

Tungwarara credits his inspiration to President Emmerson Mnangagwa's farm at Precabe, showcasing the potential for innovative farming practices in Zimbabwe.

Located in the heart of Chegutu, Mashonaland West, the farm is enhancing local food security and promoting eco-friendly farming practices.

The farm's adoption of advanced irrigation techniques and climate-resilient seed varieties has made it a model for modern agriculture. This integrated approach not only boosts crop yields but also supports biodiversity and reduces environmental impact.

"When I went to President Emmerson Mnangagwa's farm at Precabe, I was motivated and I told myself that I should copy and paste what he was doing at his farm. It is what motivated me," Tungwarara said.

Tungwarara’s team has also adopted conservation agriculture methods, such as minimal tillage and crop rotation, to maintain soil fertility and reduce environmental impact.

“Our goal is to ensure that maize production is not only sustainable but also capable of meeting the needs of our communities," Tungwarara said during a tour of the farm.

The surplus maize is sold locally at GMB, providing affordable food options and supporting the livelihoods of nearby farmers.

"Our main crop is maize. We have already acquired machines to process oil and the by-products would be used for cattle and pig feeds," he said.

The farm's fish ponds showcase the potential of aquaculture in alleviating protein deficiencies, with tilapia being the primary fish species reared in well-maintained ponds utilising recirculating water systems to minimise waste.

This efficient approach ensures the production of high-quality fish for local markets while optimizing resource use.

Tungwarara stressed the significance of fish farming in combating malnutrition, particularly in rural areas, noting that "fish is an excellent source of protein and essential nutrients, and by promoting aquaculture, we are creating jobs and improving the health of our people."

Meanwhile, the poultry section of the farm is a bustling hub of activity, with hundreds of free-range chickens raised for both meat and egg production. The farm employs modern, welfare-focused housing systems that prioritize bird well-being while maximizing productivity.

In addition to poultry, the farm's animal husbandry operations include cattle and goat rearing, with a focus on sustainable practices.

Livestock are fed a diet of farm-grown fodder and crop residues, reducing reliance on external feed sources. The farm's sizable cattle herd, comprising several breeds, is bred for both meat and dairy production.