Nothando Zondo, cherrelncz@gmail.com
GOVERNMENT and its partners have come to the rescue of Mzinyathini Irrigation Scheme in Umzingwane District, with upgrade works underway in a move expected to improve food security in the area. The 45-hectare scheme, established in 1956 and historically reliant on a canal system drawing water from Umzingwane Dam, had been idle for the past six months due to water scarcity.
The scheme is being upgraded to adopt climate smart methods, including drip, centre pivot and sprinkler systems, alongside the sinking of boreholes to supplement irrigation water. Umzingwane District AGRITEX extension officer, Mr Bhekilizwe Ncube, said Government is working to ensure the nation is food secure, describing the rehabilitation of Mzinyathini as a step towards that goal.
“The government is teaming up with various partners to rehabilitate irrigation schemes in the province while striving to utilise all water bodies available so that we can have cropping throughout the year as we are fighting climate-related challenges,” he said. “We want to move with the culture of having a seasonal cropping calendar that is spread throughout the year, producing a variety of crops starting from cereals to horticultural crops,” Mr Ncube added.
Ward 5 AGRITEX extension officer, Miss Taelo Xaba, said dam water alone is insufficient for crops in Matabeleland South, where limited rainfall disadvantages farmers.
“Now the farmers will be working in groups and planting more crops, resulting in more income and better food security for many,” said Ms Xaba. Farmers have welcomed the upgrades, which they say will save both water and time. “We’re looking forward to the completion of the rehabilitation process, which will see us farming as much as we want without being limited by water supply,” said Mr Thimoty Maphosa.
Another beneficiary, Mr Vusumuzi Mpofu, said the new irrigation methods would significantly enhance operations.
“At first, I didn’t understand the pivot method of irrigation, but after it was explained to me, I am excited about it because it saves water, time, and energy,” he said.
Government is partnering with the Green Climate Fund (GCF) and UNDP to revitalise the scheme. Meanwhile, the broader rehabilitation of idle irrigation schemes in Matabeleland South is expected to strengthen food and nutrition security and support progress towards Vision 2030.
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