Image Credits: ZBC

After decades of difficulties and experiencing losses in the agriculture sector, Zimbabwean commercial farmers have embraced Chia production as a better option that brings in better profit margins as compared to other cash crops in the country.
They attended training with the Foundation for Farmers and Chia Growers Zimbabwe to acquire knowledge on how best they can produce high yields in Chia production.
A commercial farmer in Mt Hampden, Robert Hoy told The Soil that Chia is one of the crops that have proved to have more returns as compared to other cash crops such as tobacco and cotton in the country.

“Cultivation of Chia crop is not that difficult, farmers only the need to understand and maintain the correct conditions needed in growing Chia so that they can have high yields at the end of the day,” said Hoy adding that:
“Good harvest means more money in the back pocket.”

Chia Growers Zimbabwe’s Eddy Ruis said with Chia a farmer will never go wrong.
“Chia can be used in several ways such as cereal powder, energy drink, oil (food and body nourishing and so forth. Therefore, embracing Chia as another cash crop in Zimbabwe can help in boosting the country’s revenue,” said Eddy.

Chia crop has also proved to have more nutritional value.
For such a small seed, chia seeds contain some important nutrients.
Chia seeds are rich in fibre – which helps with satiety, the feeling of fullness. A 25g portion of chia seeds contains approximately 9g of fibre. The daily recommended amount of fibre is 30g, so including a 25g portion of chia seeds, each day could be a useful contribution. Fibre is important for a healthy digestive system and many of us do not reach the recommended target.
Omega-3 fatty acids are known for their anti-inflammatory effects, as well as enhancing brain and potentially heart health. Chia seeds contain omega-3 in the plant form: alpha linolenic acid (ALA) making them a valuable source for vegans and vegetarians.
Chia seeds are relatively high in protein – so they are a useful source of plant protein and provide a range of amino acids, particularly for vegetarian and vegan diets

Chia is a South American tiny black seed from the Salvia hispanica plant, a member of the mint family Legend has it that the ancient Aztecs and Mayans used chia seeds as a source of energy.