marble nkomo
THE recent surge in dam inflows across Matabeleland marks a pivotal watershed moment for farmers and food security in Zimbabwe.
As the rainy season blesses the region, optimism runs high among the agricultural community, setting the stage for potential bumper harvests and enhanced national food security.
This positive development, highlighted by the Zimbabwe National Water Authority (Zinwa), indicates that the country’s major dams are currently filled to an impressive average of 89,1 percent capacity — a clarion call for renewed agricultural enthusiasm.
The impact of this water bounty is vividly illustrated by the Mtshabezi Dam in Matabeleland South, which has recently spilled for the first time in nine years.
This singular event signifies not just a local triumph but a broader, systemic shift in water resource availability that fuels hope and revitalises an entire agricultural sector.
Moreover, other dams in the region, including Bubi-Lupane, Antelope, and Zhovhe, have reported surpassing 100 percent capacity.
These developments unleash new possibilities, particularly given the ongoing Government initiatives aimed at improving irrigation and farming infrastructure.
In particular, the Bubi-Lupane Irrigation Scheme stands as a beacon of hope for smallholder farmers, most of whom are women. The successful commissioning of this scheme by President Mnangagwa in 2021 underlines the Government’s commitment to agricultural development.
As these farmers shift from subsistence to commercial production, they find themselves not just feeding their families but contributing significantly to national strategic grain reserves. The revitalisation of such schemes is critical; as Mrs Sinikiwe Moyo, chairperson of the Bubi-Lupane Irrigation Scheme, articulated, the renewed water supply will allow farmers to expand production significantly after last year’s constrained output.
This sense of revitalisation is further echoed at the Redwood Irrigation Scheme in Umguza District, where the full reservoirs are fostering hope across various produce sectors, from wheat to potatoes. The replete water supplies are transforming agricultural practices, enabling farmers to maximise their production potential.
Comments from local leaders, such as Mr Mbuso Nxumalo, reveal a palpable sense of determination among farmers to forge ahead and capitalise on the favourable conditions.
Importantly, the advantages of improved water management extend beyond crop production to livestock farming. For cattle farmers in Matabeleland South, such as Mr Methuseli Nkiwane, full dams promise better pasture availability and reduced mortality rates during the harsh dry seasons.
Here, the interconnections of water availability and livestock sustainability become evident; healthier pastures lead to healthier livestock, which in turn strengthens the local economy.
These jubilant sentiments arise from the backdrop of substantial Government commitment towards irrigation development and climate-resilient agriculture.
The agricultural interventions outlined in the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2) reveal the expansive vision for transforming Zimbabwe’s agricultural landscape.
By investing in the rehabilitation of irrigation schemes, upgrading major dams, and supporting the installation of modern irrigation technology, the Government is acting decisively to mitigate the impacts of recurrent droughts — a chronic menace that has beleaguered the country’s agricultural aspirations.
Critical to this process is the collaboration between governmental bodies such as Zinwa and the Agricultural and Rural Development Authority (Arda). This partnership enables the provision of essential inputs, mechanisation, and innovative agricultural techniques to empower smallholder farmers.
Through programmes like Pfumvudza/Intwasa and the National Irrigation Development Programme, farmers are increasingly able to produce crops year-round, significantly boosting national food security and self-sufficiency.
However, while there is much to celebrate, caution is warranted. As Mr Nathan Nkomo, chief director of the Civil Protection Unit, points out, the authorities must remain vigilant regarding smaller dams not under Zinwa’s control.
The potential for unexpected dam spillages poses risks for communities, highlighting the ongoing need for effective water management and audience engagement at local levels. Education and preparedness for potential flooding situations are imperative for rural communities that may lack access to the infrastructure and technology that larger operations enjoy.
In essence, the enhanced dam inflows in Matabeleland not only herald a promising agricultural season but also underline a vital narrative of resilience and revival in the face of climate adversity.
This pivotal moment is driven by sustained Government investment, innovative agricultural strategies, and an unwavering commitment from local farmers.
If leveraged effectively, these developments could see Matabeleland transform from a region historically grappling with water scarcity to one celebrated for its agricultural prowess and resilience.
Ultimately, this season represents a critical juncture for Zimbabwe — a chance to deepen the nation’s food security, reduce reliance on imports, and carve a future where agriculture plays a crucial role in achieving economic stability and growth.
The road ahead is rife with possibilities, propelled by the promise of water abundance and driven by the tenacity of those who till the land.
Bongani Ndlovu