Story by Tafara Chikumira
IRRIGATION schemes in Lower Gweru are transforming livelihoods, with one of the projects now aiming for the export market.
The Insukamini Irrigation Scheme in Vungu stands as testimony to how community-led initiatives, backed by government support, can turn an arid region into a productive greenbelt.
Having matured over the years, the scheme is now targeting export markets, supported by reduced post-harvest losses following the establishment of a solar-powered refrigerated pack shed two years ago.
“We are very grateful to government for establishing the pack shed for us. We recently harvested our peas, and we no longer experience the losses we used to. We are now producing perishable crops that have export market demand,” said the Irrigation Scheme chairperson, Mrs Moleen Majazi.
Local farmers are also witnessing life-changing improvements through their involvement in the scheme.
“I must say life has never been the same since I started farming here. I have managed to send two of my children to tertiary institutions, one attended Mkoba Teachers’ College and the other Great Zimbabwe University, and they are now qualified teachers. I also have another child at NUST, and I am paying their fees through proceeds from this scheme,” said farmer Mrs Jane Ndonde.
Another farmer, Mrs Edina Ndlovu, highlighted the scheme’s wider community impact.
“We have managed to create employment through this scheme. People, especially the youth, come to work when it gets busy, and we sometimes pay them in food or money.”
Echoing similar sentiments, Mrs Phillis Dube added, “It’s a huge programme that has changed this community. During difficult times, we also feed the vulnerable. We identify those in need and provide them with food hampers.”
The Insukamini Irrigation Scheme began operations with 41 families and now supports more than 121, bolstered by the government’s ongoing agricultural transformation efforts.
