12 Sep 2018

It is mandatory for every state to be food secure, which is difficult to attain under the current climate conditions, hence the need for farmers to adopt new farming technologies, says the Director of Ramogomana company, Mr Peter Horst.

He told Moshupa South farmers about the importance of conserving moisture in the soil and hoeing weeds from growing crops.

He also demonstrated different crop production technologies and how to apply pesticides to the seeds before ploughing and while crops are still growing.

He advised farmers to refrain from the old ploughing methods of using hoes to cultivate seeds, adding that to have better harvest, farmers should control weeds by using liquid chemicals.

He said it was important to conduct soil tests as often as possible because the soil loses its nutrients when continually ploughed, adding that soil tests give farmers an opportunity to find nutrients deficiencies.

Mr Horst pointed out that ‘’technology adoption is all about changing mindset, which is a product of many components such as love, faith, hope and trust in agriculture’’.

He said technology changes with time, hence farmers should also move forward and change how they perceive farming, adding that the use of proper farming techniques ought to be adopted for the country to be food secure.

He indicated that technology enhances food security as it improves production per hectare, adding that higher and good quality products could also be produced with technology.

Mr Horst appealed to all farmers who were in attendance, not to dwell on negatives but instead uphold positive issues for them to progress in farming.

Farmers were also encouraged to rip their fields during ploughing seasons to keep moisture in the soil. ENDs