Online Reporter
Amos Mpofu, [email protected]
MANANDA Dam in Somnene Ward 18, Bulilima District, Matabeleland South, has started spilling over following weeks of substantial rainfall across the country.
Built in 1967, the dam is a critical water source for commercial farmers and villagers in the area, providing both sustenance and income. Last year, the dam’s water levels failed to exceed 50 percent due to the El Nino-induced drought, severely impacting farming activities.
Among the key beneficiaries is the Seventh-Day Adventist (SDA)-run Solusi University, which operates a large farm in the area. Other users include Maheba commercial farmers and the Somnene small-scale irrigation scheme.
The local councillor, Land Ndebele, said the improved water levels have rekindled hope among farmers.
“We are grateful that Mananda Dam is now full. It has enough water to sustain the community for the next three years. Last year, the low water levels prevented farmers from fully engaging in agricultural activities, leading to significant losses in both crops and livestock,” he said.
Local commercial farmer and chairman of the dam company, Mr Toney Rosenfeld, said the improved water levels would greatly benefit farming operations.
“The increase in water levels will significantly boost our agricultural activities. Last year, we couldn’t fully utilise our land, but this season, I am preparing for winter cropping, focusing on sugar beans and peppers,” he said.
Mr Rosenfeld specialises in maize, tomatoes, sugar beans and peppers.
“I’m optimistic about a successful season. With full water availability, I can plant all my fields and look forward to a brighter future,” he said.
However, cattle farmer Mr Leonard Ndlovu cautioned that excessive rainfall could lead to livestock diseases such as January disease.
“While the rains are good for crops, they pose challenges for cattle farming. Too much rain increases the risk of diseases like January disease, which we didn’t face last year,” he said.
Mr Ndlovu, who breeds Brahman and Nguni cattle, said he was managing to provide proper feed for his livestock thanks to the abundant water supply.
“I’m happy for the crop farmers, as they are benefitting greatly from the good rains,” he added.
According to the Meteorological Services Department (MSD), rainfall is expected to continue across 0much of the country, providing a positive outlook for the 2025 agricultural season.
