Zimpapers Logo

Thupeyo Muleya Beitbridge Bureau
Five major irrigation schemes are on the verge of collapse in Mwenezi district after farmers struggled to repair broken down engines and other equipment.

In an interview last week, Mwenezi District Administrator, Ms Rosemary Chingwe, appealed to Government and development agencies to come to their rescue.

She said the area was semi-arid hence crops could only do well under irrigation.

“The situation at Dinhe, Chizumba, Murove, Pikinini and Magomana irrigation schemes is deplorable,” said Ms Chingwe.

“Irrigation farming and livestock production is the source of livelihood for many people in this region. Food security and nutrition are some of the Government’s priority areas.

“We are worried with the state of affairs at these irrigation projects, most of which draw their water from Manyuchi Dam.”

Ms Chingwe said diesel pumps at the irrigation schemes had succumbed to wear and tear.

There were also cases of intermittent breakdown of equipment.

She said the district had a population of 166 263 people concentrated mostly in the rural areas.

Ms Chingwe said Manyuchi Dam and Mwenezi River had the capacity to supply most of the irrigation schemes, though the water bodies were underutilised.

“It is sad that water has become elusive for many of the plot holders who are failing to raise funds to repair broken down pumps or to electrify their projects,” she said.

“In other cases, the farmers are pulling out due to viability issues.”

Ms Chingwe said the district required 12 000 tonnes of maize for consumption per month.

She said recent flash floods had also destroyed key infrastructure, including fences and canals at some of the projects.

She said though the district was good for livestock production, it was wise to blend with crop production through irrigation farming.

“We also want to urge Government to consider people in this area for the Command Livestock programme,” said Ms Chingwe.

“We are not only looking at cattle, but the community may also venture into goats, sheep and poultry production.”