Online Reporter
Thupeyo Muleya,Beitbridge Bureau
Communal farmers in the Mzingwane area under Beitbridge West have raised concerns over the vandalism of agricultural equipment in their irrigation project and appealed for intervention by authorities.
The 22.5-hectare initiative, with 36 plot holders, was launched in March 2024 and is powered by a solar water system consisting of 148 panels, each generating 550 watts.
In a statement, legislator for the constituency, Cde Thusani Ndou, said vandalism was affecting many public institutions in the community.
He urged communities to be vigilant and safeguard public property from theft and vandalism, as this has adverse effects on socio-economic progress.
“I am deeply concerned about the sabotage of vital equipment at irrigation projects, including that at Mzingwane in Ward 7. I have received complaints from community members about criminals stealing or tampering with equipment and I will be engaging the police to get follow-ups,” said Cde Ndou.
He emphasised the importance of community commitment to growth and development.
The legislator said the development of communal irrigation projects supported by the Government and its partners buttresses President Mnangagwa’s vision of inclusive development.
Mzingwane project secretary, Mrs Sinikiwe Nguluvhe, highlighted several pressing concerns, including the theft of project equipment.
She said, besides theft and vandalism, they were also having challenges in procuring essential farming resources such as tractors, among other farming implements.
Former Beitbridge RDC Councilor, Alderman Joseph Muleya, said the community was willing to work with other stakeholders in ending vandalism.
He said crop husbandry was one of the major economic activities in the area, hence the need to protect their irrigation equipment from further sabotage.
