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Chenai Museta
GOVERNMENT has launched the Tuli-Shashe 800-kilometre greenbelt project aimed at combating relentless water and pasture woes affecting the Southern parts of Gwanda district in Matabeleland South.
The initiative follows the establishment of the El Nino Drought Action Committee (DAC) by the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, which aims to mitigate the devastating effects of the 2023/24 El Nino drought on livestock.
During a recent visit to Ward 24 in the south of Gwanda District, Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development Deputy Minister Davis Marapira assessed the situation and explored the project’s potential. He highlighted the promising potential for water harvesting in the area.
“The initiative plans to channel water up to 100 kilometres inland using solar energy to power irrigation systems, facilitating widespread pasture irrigation. We can drill ten of these in a day along the 800km stretch of the river,” he said pointing to a recently installed pump that goes nine metres deep into the ground.
To mitigate the adverse effects of the ongoing El Niño-induced drought, Government has installed solar powered sand abstraction pumps along the river. These pumps enable local farmers to provide water for their livestock, a much needed relief in the current arid conditions.
The Deputy Minister also emphasised the urgent need for the establishment of the greenbelt, acknowledging the severe drought conditions that affect in the area each year.
“This area suffers from severe drought year after year, making the creation of a greenbelt essential for our livestock,” he added.
Dep Min Marapira noted that water could be accessed at just one metre at the confluence of the Tuli and Shashe rivers but can reach up to 10 metres with the proper drilling techniques to unlock abundant water. He emphasised that a pump powered by 15 to 20 horsepower would be sufficient to transport water long distances, potentially irrigating areas in Matabeleland North and South, as well as parts of the Midlands and Masvingo.
Government aims to establish the Tuli-Shashe pastures greenbelt, which will be pivotal in resolving the persistent water and pasture issues faced by livestock in Matabeleland and beyond.
The Tuli-Shashe greenbelt project is a direct response to alarming reports of over 3 500 cattle deaths since December 2023 including 900 in Insiza and Gwanda alone. The initiative aims to harness the Tuli-Shashe River’s water resources to implement sustainable irrigation solutions benefiting local farmers and livestock.
The greenbelt is anticipated to significantly reduce the need for cattle to cross into Botswana for grazing, ultimately enhancing food security in the region.
Online Reporter