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Minister Muchinguri-Kashiri

Ishemunyoro Chingwere Business Reporter
GOVERNMENT has identified several sites for the construction of weirs across the country to enhance water harvesting for irrigation to boost agriculture output.

The weir, a barrier that stretches across the river, allows water to pool behind it while excess spills over the top and continues downstream. In an interview, Environment, Water and Climate Minister Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri said out of 107 sites identified for the construction of the weirs, 34 were already under construction

“The ministry has been carrying out various projects contributing to its goal of increasing the provision of raw water for agriculture, industry, urban and mining as well as contributing to the Zim-Asset and sustainable development goals on water and sanitation,” said Minister Muchinguri-Kashiri.

“The number of weirs ready for construction now stands at 107 (while) construction work has started at 34 sites. The number of sites where resource mobilisation is taking place is 70,” the minister added.

The construction of the weirs comes as the Government and Sakunda Holdings have collectively pledged $68 million towards the installation of centre pivots aimed at enhancing irrigation infrastructure to support various agricultural programmes.

The country is also set to take delivery of an assortment of irrigation equipment from Brazil worth $34 million under the second phase of the $98 million More Food For Africa loan facility.

The first phase saw the country receiving $38,6 million irrigation equipment that included irrigation kits, tractors and fertiliser spreaders. Experts say the devastating effects of climate change being faced by the country required that priority be accorded to enhance climate resilience and mitigation programmes in all climate sensitive areas.