Story by Aifheli Mudau
VILLAGE Business Units (VBUs) in Toporo, Beitbridge West, are set to deliver a bumper maize harvest, as government-supported irrigation and water infrastructure projects begin to transform one of Zimbabwe’s traditionally dry regions into productive farmland.
Beneficiaries say the initiative, which includes solar-powered boreholes, drip irrigation systems and communal maize production, has significantly improved household food security and reduced vulnerability to drought.
The programme forms part of government’s broader drive to strengthen national food and nutrition security while advancing the rural industrialisation agenda under the Second Republic.
Local farmers reported that maize crops at the VBUs are approaching maturity, with harvesting expected within weeks.
“We thank the leadership of Comrade Emmerson Mnangagwa because he has changed these dry areas of our country into a land full of good harvests. We never believed we would have such a harvest. Our maize is now at a harvesting stage, in less than a month, we will be very food secure. We are happy about this development because the government assisted us with this project that includes maize and water,” beneficiaries said.
Traditional leaders in the area said the introduction of drip irrigation and solarised water systems has reduced reliance on rain-fed agriculture, which has long exposed communities in Beitbridge to recurrent food shortages.
Village Head Mr Vhudzisani Moyo said the infrastructure had restored confidence among villagers.
“We were assisted by the government through this garden. We have got maize that has almost reached the dough stage. The government availed solarised boreholes with big tanks. In terms of hunger, we are not afraid, we are now food secure,” Vhudzisani Moyo said.
Beitbridge West legislator Honourable Thusani Ndou described the Toporo VBU as a model project, noting its potential to inspire similar initiatives across the district.
“This is one of the best Village Business Units in this place and everything is ready for the pot here; we no longer talk of hunger here,” Honourable Ndou said.
Government continues to roll out Village Business Units and other community-based development projects nationwide as part of efforts to enhance agricultural productivity, promote self-sufficiency and stimulate economic activity in rural areas.
