17 Feb 2014

Government has introduced the use of herbicides to help farmers control weeds in their farms through Integrated Support Programme for Arable Agriculture Development (ISPAAD).

This was said by Serowe agronomy officer, Mr Gositang Kangangwane during farmer’s weeding day campaign at Mr Boiki Sonaletsile’s farm at Masama Lands in Serowe on February 13.

Mr Kangangwane said amongst the already existing components of ISPAAD, government had introduced provision of herbicides to assist farmers control weeds so as to improve their harvest. He said this was  finalised last year and only introduced during the 2013/14 ploughing season.

The official said this would also encourage farmers to use the row planting style since only those who practiced the style would be assisted. Mr Kangangwane said for one to qualify for herbicides, they should have registered with the nearest Department of Crop Production offices from their extension area.

Registration starts from January to June and applicants should be of ages 18 years and above with a valid Omang and produce proof of land accessibility. He explained that only farmers who meet the said requirements would be assisted, adding that only five hectares would be sprayed for free.

Therefore, he encouraged farmers to practice row planting so as to qualify for the assistance. However, he said commercial farmers were required to meet the government half way. ENDS