Irrigation schemes improve livelihoods in Chirumanzu
Story by Tafara Chikumira
THE Second Republic’s agriculture transformation drive is paying dividends with the Chirumanzu community benefiting from the rehabilitation of irrigation schemes in the area.
The rehabilitation of Hamamavhaire and Mhende irrigation schemes is being spearheaded by the Agricultural and Rural Development Authority (ARDA).
At Mhende Irrigation Scheme, farmers have 77 hectares of land with crops ready for the market while at Hamamavhaire the community has a 48-hectare crop yield.
“I just want to thank the Second Republic and President Emmerson Mnangagwa for reviving our irrigation scheme. I can now send my children to school at ease through proceeds from farming,” said one of the community members.
Another added, “I am glad I can now spoil myself with the nicer things in life through what I realise from these gardens. I am delighted that everything is coming to a place. I can have healthy food from the garden and the money is changing my family’s lifestyle for the better.”
“Ever since the garden was rehabilitated, my life has never been the same again. It’s always good to be self-reliant and feels good to be the master of my destiny thanks to the proceeds from the garden,” said another community member.
The government has since pledged to empower people in previously marginalised communities.
Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Owen Ncube said, “It is our collective responsibility to ensure that this irrigation scheme continues to overcome production and productivity challenges. The government is committed to supporting farmers at Mhende Irrigation Scheme to ensure the success and sustainability of this irrigation scheme. I would like to extend my appreciation to the farmers, government agencies and stakeholders who have made Mhende Irrigation Scheme a thriving hub of Agricultural productivity.”
The Second Republic launched the Rural Development 8.0 Model aimed at creating village business units to eradicate poverty in all its forms.
