Dry Spell Ravages Lusangazi Maize Fields
A severe dry spell has devastated over 7,000 hectares of maize fields in Lusangazi District, Eastern Province, leaving 7,820 small-scale farmers grappling with the impact.
Lusangazi District Agriculture Coordinator (DACO), Friday Sikombe, reported that 7,268 hectares have been severely affected by the drought. He noted that many farmers planted their crops at the onset of the rains, but the prolonged dry conditions have left their fields drying up.
“This situation poses a significant risk of food shortages for most households in the district if the dry spell continues,” warned Mr. Sikombe.
To mitigate the impact, he encouraged farmers to adopt early-maturing varieties and drought-resistant crops such as sorghum and cassava.
Farmers in the district are also turning to the Food Reserve Agency (FRA) for maize through the community maize sales initiative. Mr. Sikombe explained that the government has introduced a bonding exercise for beneficiaries under the Farmer Input Support Program (FISP) and the Sustainable Agriculture Finance Facility (SAFF). This allows farmers to sell their produce to the FRA, enhancing food security.
In addition to the drought, the district recently experienced an outbreak of grasshoppers in Mwanika Camp, affecting 156 hectares of maize belonging to 57 farmers. Mr. Sikombe confirmed that chemicals were provided to contain the pest, and the situation is now under control.
He urged farmers to remain vigilant, monitor their fields, and promptly report any pest outbreaks. “Farmers should also consider purchasing additional chemicals to prepare for potential pest infestations linked to the drought,” he added.
Mr. Sikombe expressed gratitude to the government for its swift intervention in managing the pest outbreak and addressing the challenges faced by farmers.
Source: ZANIS