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Zimbabwe politicians must stay away from inputs distribution
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Chikomba District Development Coordinator (DDC), Michael Mariga, has issued a stern warning to politicians, urging them not to interfere with the distribution of Pfumvudza agricultural inputs. Speaking during the official launch of the district's Pfumvudza input distribution at Wecom Farm, Ward 8, last week, Mariga emphasized that the process must remain apolitical to ensure fairness and efficiency.
Addressing a gathering of hundreds, including heads of government departments, Mariga stressed that Agritex Extension Officers, who oversee the distribution, should be allowed to perform their duties independently and without political interference.
"The distribution of Pfumvudza farming inputs must be apolitical. Those who completed at least two plots of potholing should receive the inputs regardless of their political affiliation," Mariga said. "Politicians must not meddle with Agritex Extension Officers in discharging their duties. These are trained officials who know their work, so let them do it professionally."
Mariga's remarks come amid growing concerns over the politicization of food and input distribution in many districts, including Gutu, where opposition supporters are often reportedly excluded from receiving aid. He reiterated that the Pfumvudza initiative is designed to assist all eligible farmers equally, fostering productivity and food security irrespective of political differences.
For this year's program, eligible farmers are required to have prepared at least two plots, with one of them mulched, as part of the initiative's conservation agriculture requirements.
The Pfumvudza program, a flagship agricultural scheme aimed at increasing productivity and ensuring food security, has faced criticism in the past over allegations of favoritism and political manipulation. Mariga's firm stance is seen as a step toward restoring confidence in the program by ensuring that inputs reach all deserving farmers.
As the distribution continues across Chikomba and other districts, stakeholders hope Mariga's directive will promote accountability and professionalism, enabling the program to achieve its intended goals.
Addressing a gathering of hundreds, including heads of government departments, Mariga stressed that Agritex Extension Officers, who oversee the distribution, should be allowed to perform their duties independently and without political interference.
"The distribution of Pfumvudza farming inputs must be apolitical. Those who completed at least two plots of potholing should receive the inputs regardless of their political affiliation," Mariga said. "Politicians must not meddle with Agritex Extension Officers in discharging their duties. These are trained officials who know their work, so let them do it professionally."
For this year's program, eligible farmers are required to have prepared at least two plots, with one of them mulched, as part of the initiative's conservation agriculture requirements.
The Pfumvudza program, a flagship agricultural scheme aimed at increasing productivity and ensuring food security, has faced criticism in the past over allegations of favoritism and political manipulation. Mariga's firm stance is seen as a step toward restoring confidence in the program by ensuring that inputs reach all deserving farmers.
As the distribution continues across Chikomba and other districts, stakeholders hope Mariga's directive will promote accountability and professionalism, enabling the program to achieve its intended goals.
Source - The Mirror
