Speaking to The Citizen recently, farmers said over the last few planting seasons, they have been missing out on essential guidelines from agricultural experts amid the biting effects of climate change.

 

"We lack guidance on what types of crops to plant and when due to climatic changes affecting the area," said Mr Mpandije Ngollo, a farmer.

 

According to Magu district agricultural officer, Mr Kessam Maswaga, the shortage of experts is mainly because a number of extension officers have retired. He said this presents a challenge in training farmers on modern crop production techniques. "Thirty extension officers are not enough to cover more than 10 wards in the district," he said.

 

Reacting to what President John Magufuli said in Simiyu Regionrecently, urging farmers to plant drought resistant crops, residents claim they lack the expertise and knowledge to grow other crops.

Source : allafrica.com