Online Reporter
THE progress being made at the Antelope irrigation scheme in Maphisa offers a clear lesson on what is possible when water, planning and commitment come together in agriculture. In a province like Matabeleland South, where rainfall is often unpredictable and dry spells are common, irrigation is not just an option, it is a necessity.
For many years, farmers in the province have struggled with poor harvests due to drought and erratic weather patterns. This has made it difficult for communities to produce enough food for themselves, let alone contribute significantly to national grain reserves. However, the growing success of irrigation schemes such as Antelope shows that this situation can change if the right investments are made.
Irrigation allows farmers to produce crops throughout the year, regardless of rainfall. This is particularly important for winter wheat, which has become a key crop in Zimbabwe’s drive towards food self-sufficiency. Without irrigation, it would be almost impossible to grow wheat during the dry season. With it, production can continue even when the land would otherwise be idle.
The work being done at Antelope demonstrates how irrigation can transform agriculture. Despite delays caused by heavy rains earlier in the season, the scheme has managed to plant a significant portion of its wheat crop and is on course to meet its targets. This shows resilience, planning and the benefits of having access to reliable water sources.
What is even more encouraging is the efficiency that irrigation can bring when used properly. At Antelope, the high levels of soil moisture left by recent rains mean that less water will be needed during the growing season. This reduces both costs and pressure on water resources. It is a reminder that irrigation, when combined with good farming practices, can be both productive and sustainable.
Beyond individual schemes, the wider impact of irrigation on the province cannot be ignored. Matabeleland South has the potential to become a major agricultural contributor if more land is brought under irrigation. The province is already working towards a wheat target of 4 500 hectares, and while progress may be slow in some areas, the overall direction is positive.
However, irrigation infrastructure must be expanded if these gains are to be maintained and improved. There is need for continued investment in dams, canals, boreholes and modern irrigation systems. Without this, many farmers will remain dependent on rainfall, which is becoming increasingly unreliable due to climate change.
Equally important is the role of partnerships. The collaboration between Government and private players, as seen at Antelope, is proving to be effective. Such arrangements bring together resources, skills and experience that can improve productivity. More of these partnerships should be encouraged across the province.
Training and support for farmers are also critical. Irrigation alone is not enough if farmers do not have the knowledge and skills to use it properly. Extension services must continue to guide farmers on water management, crop selection and efficient farming methods. This will ensure that irrigation schemes do not only exist, but also perform well.
From a national perspective, increasing production in provinces like Matabeleland South is vital. Zimbabwe has made great strides in recent years by producing more wheat and reducing reliance on imports. These achievements must be protected and built upon. Expanding irrigation will play a central role in achieving this.
Food security is not just about producing enough crops; it is also about stability. When farmers can rely on irrigation, they are less vulnerable to weather shocks. This leads to more consistent harvests, stable food supplies and better livelihoods for rural communities.
If this is done, Matabeleland South will not only feed itself but also make a meaningful contribution to the country’s food security. Irrigation, therefore, must remain at the centre of agricultural planning — not just as a short-term solution, but as a long-term strategy for growth and resilience.
