Story by Aifheli Mudau
MATOBO – THE national drive to boost food security and eradicate poverty has been instrumental in propelling successful joint ventures in agriculture between government and farmers through irrigation schemes countrywide.
The Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development concluded their national tour of joint venture schemes at ARDA Antelope Estate in Matobo district this Thursday.
Local farmer Mr Alec Chinyai, who has utilised more than 700 hectares on beans, maize and winter wheat crops, has applauded government’s initiative of promoting joint venture farming.
“As a farmer, I have realised that working with the government is a big advantage because we get assistance on time and here in ARDA Antelope, we are looking forward to harvesting seven tonnes per hectare majorly on our winter wheat crop.”
Guaranteeing food security starting at household level is the ultimate target of ARDA joint venture initiatives.
“As government, we realised that joint farming will make this country food secure and at the same time, these farmers are getting their inputs on time. Here, they planted maize, beans and winter wheat which is doing good under irrigation,” chairperson of the Committee, Honourable Felix Maburutse noted.
Irrigation development has been identified as key to uplifting livelihoods and ensuring the country is food secure.
Government continues to revitalise defunct irrigation schemes around the country with Matabeleland South boasting of major irrigations like Masholomoshe, Sebasa, Mankonkoni and Tshikwalakwala.
