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Message: [QUOTE="Nehanda, post: 24907, member: 2262"] Zimbabwe aims to plant wheat on 120,000 hectares this winter, matching last year's target as the government moves toward another strong harvest season. Officials have assembled tillage equipment and coordinated with the national power company to protect irrigation systems. Leonard Munamati, acting chief director of Agricultural and Rural Development Advisory Services, told The Sunday Mail that winter crop preparations have begun. Agriculture Minister Anxious Masuka will announce the final planting target after consulting with experts. The government has engaged farmers, financiers, and suppliers to ensure smooth operations. Funding will come from private sector initiatives, contract farming schemes, and government-backed programs through banks, including AFC, CBZ, and NMB. Officials have started coordinating with stakeholders to secure essential supplies. The Zimbabwe Electricity Supply Authority will protect power for irrigation systems after farmers submit their meter numbers and GPS locations. AFC plans to provide tractors to farmers who need them, and officials will ensure combine harvesters can quickly clear irrigated maize to make way for wheat planting. Munamati emphasized water management as crucial for success. He urged farmers to work with the Zimbabwe National Water Authority to align their planting plans with available dam water supplies. The winter program will expand beyond wheat to increase potato production, building on last year's successful plantings. This aligns with government efforts to reduce potato imports through domestic growing programs. [/QUOTE]

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