Story by Mercy Bofu-Matinha
GOVERNMENT is expediting the completion of a newly established 156-hectare irrigation scheme in Chivi expected to transform the livelihoods of more than 300 families in the area.
With the newly established Bwanya irrigation scheme in the dry region of Chivi, Vision 2030 is certainly on course given that the scheme will be operating as a business unit.
“We are excited by the commitment shown by government to ensure the completion of this project. Many of us are looking forward to this project as it will improve our livelihoods in terms of food security,” said one of the villagers.
Another added, “This area is dry and we are happy that the government said the scheme will operate as a business. It means many will be employed whilst we grow crops all year round.”
The project established under a partnership between government and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) through the Green Climate Fund is expected to start functioning before year end.
“We come here to assess progress on this project and as you can see we have deployed machinery here to ensure the project is completed early. We are hoping in the next month, the project will be functioning,” said Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, Dr Anxious Masuka.
Masvingo Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Ezra Chadzamira said, “This development truly shows that attainment of Vision 2030 is on course hence I encourage communities around to play their part in ensuring the success of all government’s development projects.”
Giving an update on the progress of the project, WAPCOS Limited Supervisor Engineer Takudzwa Maisiri said the project is more than 90 per cent complete.
“We are hoping to complete the project soon given that more than 90 per cent of the work has already been done,” said Engineer Maisiri.
Irrigation development is one of the strategies by the government to ensure food security and rural industrialisation given the threats of climate change.
