Story by Memory Chamisa
IMPROVED access to water through solar-powered infrastructure has enabled communities in the Mlibizi area of Binga District to adapt to climate shocks while expanding agricultural production for household consumption and surplus trade.
Established in 2023 under the Government’s Climate Adaptation, Water and Energy Programme (CAWEP), the Saba Irrigation Scheme in Mlibizi has transformed agricultural activity in the area, with many households benefiting from the 20-hectare project.
The beneficiaries are now able to farm all year round in the dry region, hence improving food security for dozens of households.
“We used to rely on growing small grains only. Now we are growing maize, sugar beans and chilli. Our lives have improved as this is a dry area characterised by hunger. We work as a cooperative, and all the income earned through this scheme belongs to the entire community.
“The availability of water has enabled the continuous production of fresh crops. We now have plenty of water to grow crops any time of the year, and this has improved lives in our village.
“The coming of this scheme has enabled farmers to grow crops continuously rather than waiting for the rainy season. This irrigation project has changed our lives. Our children are now eating fresh and healthy food because of this scheme,” beneficiaries of the project said.
Chief Saba highlighted the impact of the project in promoting local development.
“The project has rehabilitated and upgraded the 65-kilometre ZINWA piped water system in Mlibizi, reaching over 40 000 people, 10 schools, and two clinics with potable water. The project has also witnessed the development of a 20-hectare irrigation scheme and four one-hectare community gardens, benefiting 188 households. The coming of this irrigation scheme by the government through UNDP has greatly improved this community. We used to grow only small grains, but now we can grow maize, chilli and sugar beans. When this project was introduced, I accepted it because I knew it would bring development to my area,” he said.
The Climate Adaptation, Water and Energy Programme (CAWEP) is part of the government’s broader strategy to enhance climate resilience, food security and sustainable livelihoods in climate-vulnerable districts such as Binga.
With support from the Global Environment Facility Small Grants Programmes (GEF SGP) in Zimbabwe, implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the government has made significant strides in supporting community-based initiatives such as livestock production and aquaculture, among others.
