Story by Tapiwa Machemedze
THE development of irrigation schemes by the government is bearing fruit, with the Negomo Irrigation Scheme in Chiweshe facilitating agriculture operations for nearly 600 citrus farmers.
Currently in its peak harvest season, the 357-hectare scheme is a hive of activity. Established in 1996, it is now the largest community-run citrus plantation in Mashonaland Central Province.
Scheme chairperson, Mr Lovemore Muza highlighted the benefits of staggered harvesting for income sustainability.
“We produce two types of oranges, navel oranges harvested from March to May, and valencia which mature late August to October. This means farmers can sustain themselves over this period,” he said.
The lifeblood of this agricultural haven is the reliable water supply drawn from the Ruya River and Negomo Dam with green mealies, beans, carrots, peas, and sweet potatoes also being produced to boost food security in the community and beyond.
“We are farming as a business indeed. Our horticulture produce here is for selling and own consumption. We even search for buyers on the internet and most of them come and buy themselves,” Negomo Irrigation Scheme member, Trust Chidawu said.
A female co-operative member Ruth Chipiro says the scheme has become an important vehicle for women empowerment, with over half the members being female.
“Vendors buy tour produce and give us money. Besides the Negomo community, the scheme also supports many areas such as Glendale, Mazowe and even Harare. The majority of people who vend oranges are women,” she said.
Aligning with the National Development Strategy One economic blueprint, there are ambitious plans for the value addition of citrus into fruit juice.
