Farmers from Mochenwa location in Gesima ward Kitutu Masaba constituency have urged the Ministry of Agriculture to carry out an investigation on fake maize breeds and sensitise farmers on how to identify fake breeds from genuine ones as they enter the planting season.
The farmers said that the production of maize has gone down due to the existence of fake breeds circulating in the market especially during the planting season.
Led by Joshua Nyasimi, the farmers have accused the ministry of ignoring their concerns even after complaining to the ministry of the existence of fake breeds which has lowered production in the area.
“As we approach the planting season we urge the Ministry of Agriculture to organise a meeting with farmers so that they can assist us identify fake breeds from genuine ones,” said Nyasimi.
Grads Nyakwara, who is also a farmer said that measures should be put into place to help increase of the production as maize is their main food crop.
“Maize is one of the food crops that we largely depend on, so we urge the ministry to put extra effort to enhance the production,” said Nyakwara.
Over a period of time now, Nyamira maize farmers have been experiencing maize diseases which they would want addressed by the ministry.