Grow drought resistant crops, farmers told
Centre for Agricultural Transformation director of science and technology Geoffrey Kananji has urged farmers in Zomba District to grow drought resistant crops to improve food security.
He said this on Monday at Makoka Agricultural Research Station in Zomba during an open day that sought to create a platform for farmers to appreciate agricultural technologies essential for increased productivity.
Kananji cited sunflower and sesame as drought tolerant crops.
He also said these crops have high value in terms of sales.
Said Kananji: “Government is talking about value addition, so sunflower and sesame are such crops that farmers can easily add value.
“However, to achieve a lot, farmers should formulate cooperatives where farmers can buy input supplies cheaper and sell more of their products and services in larger markets at higher prices.”
Makoka Agricultural Research Station manager Godfrey Ching’oma instructed farmers to embrace innovative farming technologies to reap bumper yields.
He said it was important for farmers to learn various agronomic practices which they can adopt and apply in their fields.
“To achieve high yields amid climate change shocks, farmers should plant hybrid seeds and practise crop rotation for improved yield,” said Ching’oma.
Christina Kizesi, a farmer, said they are committed to investing in new technologies.
Foundation for a Smoke-Free World is supporting farmers to embrace new technologies
