By Edward Makuzva
HARARE – As Zimbabwe’s agricultural sector battles the mounting threats of erratic weather patterns and destructive crop diseases, SeedCo Vegetables is stepping up with bold, farmer-centric innovations designed to foster resilience and productivity.
Speaking at the company’s Vegetables Field Day held in Harare on Thursday, SeedCo Vegetables General Manager, Patrick Mtandwa, underscored the organisation’s renewed focus on practical solutions that empower farmers to thrive under increasingly difficult growing conditions.
He revealed that SeedCo Vegetables is investing in the development and distribution of reliable, well-adapted seed varieties specifically bred to withstand harsh climatic conditions and resist common yet devastating diseases such as Black Rot, Purple Blotch, and Late Blight.
Mtandwa also emphasized the importance of equipping farmers with sound agronomic knowledge.
“It’s not just about selling seeds,” said Mtandwa. “It’s about partnering with farmers throughout the growing season—offering guidance, technical support, and practical solutions to help them get the best possible yields despite the challenges they face.”
“Through field days, training programs, and ongoing research, SeedCo Vegetables is reinforcing its role as a trusted partner in sustainable farming, working hand-in-hand with growers to secure food security and drive productivity across the region”, Mtandwa added.
Mtandwa noted that the past few months have seen excessive rains bring new challenges to farmers, including an emerging wave of diseases that threaten crop viability and profitability. SeedCo Vegetables has responded by showcasing genetics that are standing up to these challenges and comparing them with those that are being affected.
“SeedCo Vegetables is collaborating closely with farmers, agronomists, and other key stakeholders to deliver a robust support system.
“This effort involves promoting best agricultural practices—such as optimal planting dates, effective crop rotation, timely spraying schedules, and proactive disease monitoring.
“Additionally, the company is rolling out new seed varieties, including two specially developed tomato lines designed for open field cultivation” Mtandwa explained.
He reaveled that SeedCo Vegetables is emphasizing the importance of good agronomic practices, backed by qualified personnel from agricultural colleges. The company’s agronomy team is continuously working with farmers, providing guidance and support to help them navigate the challenges of disease management.
“As SeedCo Vegetables marks its 85th anniversary, the company is renewing its dedication to supporting farmers’ success. Through collaboration, SeedCo Vegetables and farmers continue to innovate, share knowledge, and thrive together even amid challenges”, said Mtandwa.
Meanwhile, the showcase is a testament to SeedCo Vegetables’ unwavering dedication to driving innovation and resilience in agriculture. By bringing together farmers, researchers, and industry stakeholders, the event highlighted the company’s proactive role in introducing cutting-edge technologies and crop varieties tailored to address the evolving challenges of climate change, pests, and market demands.
As SeedCo Vegetables looks to the future, its strategic focus on collaboration, knowledge transfer, and science-based solutions positions it as a pivotal force in transforming agricultural productivity.
The company’s strong partnership approach — working hand in hand with farmers, agronomists, and policymakers — ensures that its innovations are not only practical but also sustainable.
Through this commitment to agronomy and farmer empowerment, SeedCo Vegetables is helping to shape a more food-secure and environmentally conscious agricultural landscape across the region.