Online Reporter
Freedom Mupanedemo, Midlands Bureau
LOCATED 27km from Gweru City, the Insukamini Irrigation Scheme in Ward 19 has transformed the lives of 126 farmers, providing a sustainable source of income and food security.
The irrigation scheme is transforming livelihoods, with one of the projects now aiming for the export market.
Established under 41,3 hectares, the scheme utilises flood irrigation, harnessing gravitational force from the nearby Insukamini Dam.
The farmers have been allocated 0,5 hectares (42 farmers) and 0,2 hectares (84 farmers), promoting equitable land distribution.
Insukamini Irrigation Scheme serves as one of the models for agricultural development in Zimbabwe, demonstrating the potential for rural communities to thrive through irrigation and collective farming.
The Irrigation Scheme in Vungu stands as testimony to how community-led initiatives, backed by Government support, can turn an arid region into a productive greenbelt.
The scheme, having matured over the years, is now targeting export markets, supported by reduced post-harvest losses following the establishment of a solar-powered refrigerated pack-house, two years ago.
Irrigation Scheme chairperson, Mrs Moleen Majazi, said they were producing perishable crops that are for export.
“We are very grateful to Government for establishing the pack shed for us. We recently harvested our peas, and we no longer experience the losses we used to. We are now producing perishable crops that have export market demand,” she said.
One of the farmers at the scheme Mrs Jane Ndonde said they were witnessing life-changing improvements through their involvement in the scheme.
She said life has never been the same since she started farming at the scheme.
“I have managed to send two of my children to tertiary institutions, one attended Mkoba Teachers’ College and the other Great Zimbabwe University, and they are now qualified teachers,” she said. “I also have another child at Nust, and I am paying their fees through proceeds from this scheme.”
Mrs Edina Ndlovu said they have managed to create employment for youths and women from Vungu area at the scheme.
“People, especially the youth, come to work when it gets busy, and we sometimes pay them in food or money,” she said.
Mrs Phillis Dube noted that the scheme is a huge programme that has changed the socio-economic status of their community.
“During difficult times, we also feed the vulnerable. We identify those in need and provide them with food hampers,” she said.
