Any grower looking for a profitable and nutritious crop for the upcoming season needs to look no further than Shiba F1 hybrid butternut squash. This crop is relatively easy to manage with a high yield potential. With little need for extensive pest and disease control measures, farmers can produce this vegetable at a reasonable cost while also providing a healthy food option for consumers.
MKP Farms is a major role player in the Central Province and in conjunction with Starke Ayres aims to boost production in the region. MKP Farms is dedicated to producing fresh, high-quality vegetables. They provide training in climate-smart agricultural practices, harvesting, handling, and packaging of farm produce, very much in line with the Starke Ayres mission of reducing hunger.
One way of doing this is using hybrid varieties with all the associated benefits such as higher yields, better uniformity, superior quality and improved pest and disease resistance. This cooperation led to Chibombo, Central Province growers being introduced.
to the hybrid butternut variety Shiba.
“We are linking farmers to various local and foreign markets. The markets that are being accessed by farmers due to their relationship with MKP Farms include chain stores, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Denmark. This has resulted in increased household incomes and food security. “
Shiba butternut proved to be a perfect fit in this situation. The high yields of quality fruit gave growers good returns and satisfied end customers' needs. A steady market and consistent income resulted, which greatly benefited all in the value chain. Local consumption of butternut has also increased, providing a rich source of vitamins A and C, folic acid and potassium to the local population.
Shiba butternut squash is proving to be a valuable crop for Zambian farmers due to its’ high yield, resistance to pests and diseases, and nutritional value. By choosing this hybrid crop, farmers can maximise profits while providing consumers with a healthy and delicious food option.
