Story by Aifheli Mudau
MICRO-irrigation is transforming agriculture in Beitbridge, improving food security and driving rural industrialisation as farmers adopt smart farming methods that enable year-round production.
Farmers such as Mr Savious Ndou of Makakavhule and Mr Lizwe Ndlovu are among those benefiting from the initiative, with increased productivity across a range of crops.
Mr Ndou, who focuses on soyabeans and citrus production, said the project has significantly improved livelihoods.
“There are more than 500 citrus trees, including soyabeans, and this farming is helping my family and even neighbours in terms of food self-sufficiency. I hope by 2030, I will be full-blown into a commercial farmer,” he said.
Mr Ndlovu, who grows sugarcane and sweet potatoes, highlighted the economic benefits of the programme.
“We are trying to utilise the land that Government gave us, and I am doing sugarcane and sweet potatoes. When they are ready, I will supply to the local market, and that means we are all benefitting from the project,” he said.
Government support under the Pfumvudza/Intwasa programme continues to provide inputs and technical assistance, strengthening climate-resilient agriculture.
Irrigation schemes, such as Tongwe, Mzingwane, and Jalukanga, are among those enhancing productivity and sustaining communities in the district.
Beitbridge Agricultural Business Advisory Officer, Ms Leah Nare, said continuous support is being provided throughout the farming cycle.
“We are offering support to our farmers so that they can do better. We start together when they are planting and assist them all the way until they get to the market,” she noted.
The Second Republic is prioritising the revival of irrigation schemes and the establishment of new ones as part of broader efforts to enhance food security and promote rural industrialisation in line with Vision 2030.
Micro-irrigation, which delivers water directly to plant roots through low-pressure systems such as drips and sprinklers, has proven highly efficient, reducing water wastage while improving crop yields.
