Mananda Dam overflows, bringing relief to farmers

Amos Mpofu, [email protected]
THE Mananda Dam, located in Somnene Ward 18, Bulilima District, Matabeleland South, is spilling after receiving substantial rainfall in recent days—bringing smiles to local farmers who rely on its water for both commercial and subsistence farming.
Constructed in 1967, the dam serves as a vital water source for many commercial farmers and villagers in the surrounding area. For these farmers, it is not just a reservoir but a lifeline, providing both income and sustenance.

Last year, however, farmers faced a difficult season as the dam’s water level failed to exceed 50 per cent due to the El Niño-induced drought that gripped the country. The drought severely impacted agricultural activities across Zimbabwe, leading to significant losses in both crops and livestock.
Notable institutions such as the Seventh-day Adventist Church’s Solusi University also depend on the dam for their agricultural activities. The university operates a vast farm in the area, while other beneficiaries include the Maheba Commercial Farmers and the Somnene Small-Scale Irrigation Scheme, along with many other local farmers.Speaking to The Chronicle, the councillor for the area, Mr Land Ndebele, expressed the joy of local farmers who are now able to resume their agricultural activities with full confidence.
“We are grateful for the high water levels this year, and we can confidently say the dam is full. It has enough water to sustain the community for approximately the next three years,” he said.
Reflecting on the challenges of the previous year, he added, “The water levels were low last year, and farmers couldn’t fully practise their agricultural activities. This year, however, we can grow crops without worrying about water shortages or predictable losses.”
Cllr Ndebele acknowledged the hardships farmers endured last year, describing it as a tough period.
“Farmers faced significant losses in both crops and livestock. The lack of rain meant fields were not properly planted, and grazing areas did not produce enough grass for cattle and other livestock. Now, with the abundant rains this year, we are finally seeing relief,” he commented.
Mr Toney Rosenfeld, a local commercial farmer and chairman of the dam company, shared his optimism for the upcoming agricultural season.
“The current water levels in Mananda will significantly boost our agricultural business this year. Last year, the dam’s water levels didn’t exceed 50 per cent, and we couldn’t fully utilise our land. This year, we can plant all our fields, and I am already preparing for winter cropping, focusing on sugar beans and peppers on my farm.”
Mr Rosenfeld specialises in crops such as maize, tomatoes, sugar beans, and peppers, ensuring he follows a proper crop rotation system.
“I am confident that this year will be more successful for my agricultural business. I’m planting all my fields, and I am looking forward to a brighter future,” he said.
However, not all farmers are equally thrilled about the heavy rains. Mr Leonard Ndlovu, a cattle farmer from the area since 1984, expressed mixed feelings. While he acknowledged that the rains are beneficial for crop production, he warned that excessive rainfall can lead to rain-borne diseases such as January disease, which affects livestock.
“The rains are good for crops, but they are not ideal for my field of cattle farming. Too much rain increases the risk of diseases like January disease. Last year, we didn’t experience this issue, but it’s something I need to keep in mind this year,” he said.
Mr Ndlovu specialises in cattle breeds such as Brahman and Ngoni and is accustomed to buying stock feed, regardless of the amount of rainfall.
“Although the rains are abundant, I am still managing to provide proper feed for my cattle, as we have enough water for livestock rearing this year,” he said.
Despite these challenges, Mr Ndlovu expressed appreciation for the overall benefits the rains have brought to his colleagues in crop farming.
“I’m happy for the farmers who grow crops, as they are benefiting greatly from the good rains,” he added.
According to the Meteorological Services Department (MSD), rains continue to fall across much of the country, offering a positive outlook for this year’s agricultural season. The widespread rainfall promises a fruitful year for both crop and livestock farmers, provided the weather remains favourable.