By Own Correspondent
Oil Castor Zimbabwe has introduced a 50% contract farming arrangement with local farmers for the provision of castor beans.
During the three year contract, Oil Castor Zimbabwe will supply farmers with seeds which it will purchase after harvesting.
Contracted farmers will go through online training on castor bean production and also receive technical support during the input and buying stage.
Part of the conditions revealed in Oil Castor Zimbabwe’s Farmers Guide are that the contract will be cancelled in the event that farmers; use non- organic means when cultivating, use artificial pesticides and synthetic chemicals, mix the seeds with others that have not been provided by the company, deliver expired seeds.
“The farmer agrees to purchase the seed the company in United States dollars (USD) and in cash only.
“Prior to the start of cultivation both company and farmer shall furnish the other party with specifications for crop cultivation.
“The company guarantees to purchase all produce of a marketable state as per quantity, quality and price stated in this agreement.
“Upon successful completion of testing and confirmation that only organic methods were used to farm the buyer agrees to purchase all the seed harvested by the farmer. Any artificial pesticides or synthetic chemicals used in farming will render this agreement void and purchase of the castor beans cancelled forthwith. Furthermore, any mixing of any other seed other than that provided by the company at the inputs stage will void this agreement,” reads the agreement.
