Zimbabwe, like many other nations, is experiencing the severe effects of climate change.
Climate change refers to long-term shifts in weather patterns over periods ranging from decades to millions of years. Human activities such as burning fossil fuels, deforestation, industrial processes, agricultural practices, waste management, and chemical use significantly contribute to climate change by increasing greenhouse gas emissions, which leads to global warming.
The impact of climate change on agriculture is profound, affecting both productivity and sustainability. Key issues include increased pest and disease pressure—warmer temperatures can expand the range and lifecycle of pests and diseases, leading to more frequent infestations; temperature fluctuations—higher temperatures can stress crops, reduce yields, and alter growing seasons, sometimes resulting in longer or shorter seasons depending on the region.
During the 2023/24 summer season, Zimbabwe experienced a severe drought caused by the El Niño phenomenon, which led to widespread crop failures. El Niño is characterized by the periodic warming of sea-surface temperatures in the Central and Eastern Equatorial Pacific Ocean.
To address these challenges, adaptation strategies are crucial. These include the sustainable use of agrochemicals and the adoption of integrated pest management (IPM) techniques to protect crops from pests exacerbated by climate change. Agrochemicals encompass various products used in agriculture, such as herbicides, insecticides, fungicides, soil fumigants, seed treatments, growth regulators, and fertilizers.
Sustainable use involves applying resources in a manner that does not lead to long-term environmental degradation, thereby ensuring that future generations can also meet their needs.
Climate change is accelerating the evolution and adaptation of pests and weeds, making them more problematic for crop production. Recent issues include the fall armyworm affecting maize, the leafminer damaging tomatoes, and an increase in Diamond Back Moth populations impacting brassicas. Pest incidences have generally risen.
At CP Chemicals Pvt Ltd, we offer a range of chemical products to combat these pests, including Volt Star 70 EC, Pilau 200 SC, Elegant Prime 100 EC, and more, available in effective formulations at competitive prices. Promoting the sustainable use of these products is essential for ensuring food security in Zimbabwe.
Weeds have also become more problematic due to climate change, with new weed species evolving to adapt to varying weather patterns. These weeds compete with crops for essential resources, reducing yields. Effective herbicides, such as Natto 260 OD, Striker Star 210 SL, and Atrazine 50 SC, are crucial for controlling weeds and conserving soil moisture and nutrients.
Fungal diseases and pathogens are on the rise due to climate change. We have identified new strains of wheat rust and offer a variety of fungicides to manage these diseases, including Mancozeb 80 WP, Copper Oxychloride 85 WP, and Supertop 32.5 EC.
Plant growth regulators, such as Ethephon 48 SL, are vital in managing crop growth, particularly in areas with limited rainfall. Ethephon aids in tobacco leaf ripening, lodging control in cereals, and ripening control in tomatoes and other fruits.
CP Chemicals is committed to helping farmers select the best products for their needs. We are a member of Croplife Zimbabwe, which regulates agrochemical use, and we are located at Mt Hampden Business Park, 16.5-km peg, Lomagundi Road, Harare, with additional branches in Harare, Bindura, Mvurwi, Karoi, and Chegutu. We offer delivery across Zimbabwe and provide after-sales support through our agronomists. Connect with us on social media platforms including WhatsApp, Facebook, X, and LinkedIn for further assistance.
