Online Reporter
Solomon Bhumu
Post Reporter
FARMERS in Manicaland have applauded the Presidential Irrigation Booster Kit Programme, saying the initiative will strengthen agricultural production and improve livelihoods in the province.
The programme, launched by President Mnangagwa, is part of Government’s broader drive to enhance national food security and promote agricultural self-sufficiency.
The Presidential Irrigation Booster Kit Programme is an initiative by the Government aimed at boosting agricultural productivity and ensuring food security.
The programme provides A1 farmers with a US$6 000 loan to purchase irrigation equipment, enabling them to irrigate between one to three hectares of land, as part of the broader strategy to climate-proof agriculture and reduce reliance on rain-fed farming.
The programme is expected to benefit 10 000 A1 farmers in its first phase, with plans to expand to more farmers in the future. The Government has allocated US$1,98 billion over 10 years to support the initiative, with five banks committing to provide additional working capital, and resultantly increase the area under irrigation, improve crop yields, and enhance food security, ultimately contributing to the country’s economic growth and development.
A tour of Enavant Farm, in Mutasa South, the irrigation booster kits are set to benefit 69 A1 farmers, many of whom have struggled with erratic rainfall patterns and the effects of climate change.
Speaking during the tour, Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development Minister, Dr Anxious Masuka described the Production Booster Kit Programme as a key milestone in Zimbabwe’s agricultural transformation agenda.
He said Government remains committed to support farmers with modern inputs and infrastructure to unlock their full potential.
“We are determined to boost agricultural productivity in Mutasa District. These booster kits will go a long way in supporting our farmers,” said Minister Masuka, adding that the programme aligns with President Mnangagwa’s vision of empowering farmers through practical support, citing ongoing initiatives such as the issuance of title deeds, provision of tractors, and strengthening of land reform institutions.
Minister Masuka also announced that farmers in Wards 21 and 23 will receive additional support, including access to AFC bank cards under a seven-year productive loan facility.
“This marks the beginning of a new era of prosperity for our farmers,” he said.
An Enavant farmer, Mr Lameck Nyakatsapa, said the kits have removed long-standing barriers to horticultural farming, which previously demanded more water than rainfall alone could provide.
“Before the booster kits, it was very difficult to venture into horticulture because these crops require reliable water supplies even after the rains.
“We can now earn a living from producing agricultural commodities that are in high demand, especially horticultural produce,” he said.
Manicaland Provincial Director in the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, Mr Nhamo Mudada said the timing of the irrigation booster kits was critical, as farmers were seeking resources to diversify crop production.
“As Manicaland, we are happy to receive the President’s booster kit. It allows farmers to produce at any time of the year and expand winter wheat production over large hectarage without worrying about rainfall,” said Mr Mudada.
