Story by Kenias Chivuzhe
THE Government’s drive to boost national food security through increasing hectarage under irrigation is on course with Romsley Irrigation Scheme in Makoni South now operational.
Farmers who spoke to ZBC News were grateful for the initiative and expressed optimism that the scheme would end their drought.
“Before this irrigation was re-established we were prone to droughts. We thank the President for leading the revival of the irrigation scheme. We planted beans and maize and are looking forward to having better yields,” said one farmer.
“We were on several occasions promised that this irrigation would be operational, but there was no progress. We want to thank President Emmerson Mnangagwa for making our dream come true and we are happy with the quality of our crop.
“This is a dry region and we are so excited to have this crop. We have 18 hectares of maize and 15 hectares of beans. We are excited that we have planted 33 hectares. This is a dry region and the soil type requires more water to achieve good yields,” said another
The local leadership added its voice to the impact of the irrigation scheme, among other developments in the province.
“This development will improve food security in our area, and we look forward to having all the hectarage in this scheme being utilised. This will increase economic activities in our area,” said traditional leader, Chief Chiduku.
“This project is in phases, the first phase covers 384 hectares, and the second phase covers 224 hectares. The people have started to plant crops under phase one. This will create employment and improve food security,” noted Makoni South Legislator, Honourable Albert Nyakuedzwa.
Special Advisor to the President on Monitoring Implementation of Government Programmes and Projects, Dr Jorum Gumbo is satisfied with the progress that has been made so far after 384 hectares were covered under phase one, while the remaining 224 hectares have been re-tendered under government funding.
“We have seen that great developments are taking place in rural areas being spearheaded by the government to promote food security and rural industrialisation.
“We have heard that 336 people will benefit from this irrigation. All the requirements to support the irrigation activities are there, and there is still funding needed to support the scheme. This irrigation scheme will benefit thousands of people,” he said.
The revival of the irrigation scheme, which had collapsed almost half a century ago, speaks volumes to the Second Republic’s determination to increase agricultural productivity and ensure food security.
