Millets National Media Portal
Millets National Media Portal
The University of Venda (UNIVEN) recently hosted a transformative Finger Millet Farmers’ Day on April 16, 2025, aiming to empower local farmers with knowledge and resources to enhance finger millet cultivation. The event brought together farmers, researchers, students, and government representatives to discuss sustainable farming practices and the potential of finger millet as a climate-resilient crop.
Dr. Odeshnee Naicker, Head of the Department for Plant and Soil Sciences and Acting Deputy Dean of Teaching and Learning, emphasized the crop's significance for food security and climate resilience. She announced the distribution of new finger millet varieties, developed through research funded by the Water Research Commission (WRC), to farmers for the upcoming planting season. Additionally, UNIVEN committed to providing ongoing technical support, including a comprehensive cultivation handbook, site visits, and training sessions.
University of Venda
Dr. Shonisani Ramashia, Head of the Department for Food Science and Technology, highlighted finger millet's nutritional benefits, noting its richness in calcium, iron, phosphorus, magnesium, dietary fiber, and vitamins A and B-complex. She pointed out the crop's potential in combating chronic illnesses and its growing appeal in urban and international markets through value-added products like snacks, baby foods, and gluten-free baked goods.
Farmers participated in a tour of UNIVEN's Experimental Farm, where they observed finger millet cultivation techniques and engaged in discussions about best practices. Ms. Adonia Thwala, a Master's student in the Crop Genetics unit, shared findings from her research on 20 experimental finger millet varieties, identifying six high-performing ones for distribution. Ms. Dorcus Maja, a PhD candidate from North-West University, provided practical guidance on agronomic management, covering topics such as planting schedules, weeding, harvesting, and post-harvest storage.
Representing the Limpopo Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, Ms. Khathutshelo Magalela praised the collaboration with UNIVEN and confirmed the department's support in facilitating farmers' participation in the event. Dr. Jestinos Mzezewa from the Department of Plant and Soil Sciences concluded the day by expressing gratitude to all participants and emphasizing the importance of continued collaboration for sustainable agriculture.
This initiative underscores UNIVEN's commitment to promoting sustainable agriculture and enhancing food security through research, education, and community engagement.
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