Online Reporter
Business Reporter
THE Government expects the private sector to drive irrigation expansion next year by developing 25 000 hectares in new capacity.
The thrust is expected to reduce the country’s dependence on increasingly erratic rainfall.
Presenting the 2026 National Budget last month, Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion Minister Professor Mthuli Ncube said irrigation and water harvesting remained fundamental to Zimbabwe’s long-term food and income security.
“The ongoing efforts to rehabilitate and expand irrigation schemes across the country are vital for building climate resilience and improving food and income security in vulnerable communities,” he said while presenting the budget.
So far this year, 13 016 hectares (ha) of new irrigation capacity has been developed, with the Government and development partners contributing 2 025ha and the private sector (through the Irrigation Development Alliance) contributing 10 876ha.
However, significant gaps remain among communal and small-scale farmers, who still depend on seasonal rains.
“There are some small-scale farmers who are still relying on rain-fed agriculture practices and are also facing numerous challenges emanating from the adverse effects of climate change.”
It is believed the significant costs associated with irrigation development cannot be borne by Treasury alone.
Minister Ncube indicated that next year would be key in transitioning from rain-fed agriculture and reducing climate vulnerability.
He also said the budget would actively pursue growth in water infrastructure in drought-prone areas.
“The 2026 Budget will pursue measures aimed at upscaling irrigation and water harvesting infrastructure development in semi-arid regions to reduce dependence on erratic rainfall and enhance all-year-round agricultural productivity,” he said.
The budget has since set aside ZiG823,9 million for irrigation development, with priority being given to ongoing schemes.
Resources will also be channelled towards operation and maintenance critical to maximising efficiency of existing irrigation infrastructure during dry periods.
Co-funding of irrigation projects with development partners, leveraging climate finance mechanisms and green bonds will also be introduced.
Facilities for research and technology development at the Zimbabwe Irrigation Technology Centre (ZITC) and Fels Farm — focusing on climate-smart irrigation technologies, drought-resistant crop varieties and water-efficient farming systems — will be upgraded.
“The Budget will strengthen the irrigation department by prioritising training in climate risk assessment, water resource forecasting and adaptive irrigation management,” Minister Ncube added.
The Government has since made a commitment to give priority to water-efficient irrigation systems (drip, sprinkler) over flood irrigation, alongside integrating weather forecasting into irrigation planning and developing schemes linked to major dams for multi-year drought resilience.
“Through RIDA (Rural Infrastructure Development Agency), the Government will concentrate on supporting surveying, designing, construction of small earth dams, construction of canals, as well as laying out of laterals for village irrigation schemes in our communities,” he said.
“The private sector will be incentivised to develop a total of 25 000 hectares.”
Agronomist Ms Pamela Macheka said the 25 000ha private sector target could significantly strengthen Zimbabwe’s resilience against prolonged drought spells.
The country’s rainfall patterns are increasingly becoming unpredictable.
“Irrigation expansion provides a lifeline for small-scale farmers who cannot continue depending on rainfall that has become unreliable,” she said.
“The private sector’s involvement is essential because the scale of infrastructure needed goes far beyond what public resources alone can deliver.”
Modern systems, especially drip irrigation, Ms Macheka added, ensure every litre of water is used productively, an imperative in arid and semi-arid regions.
Economic analyst Mr Namatai Maeresera said the incentives outlined by Treasury represent a structured economic intervention aimed at enhancing agricultural output and strengthening food security.
He said guaranteed water supply is the foundation of predictable production, which benefits manufacturers, agro-exporters and food processors.
“It reduces weather-related risk, which, in turn, improves investor confidence. When output becomes more predictable, industries reliant on agricultural inputs can plan ahead, secure contracts and maintain stable pricing,” he said.
Irrigation infrastructure also stimulates rural growth by encouraging outgrower schemes, contract farming arrangements and agro-industrial investment.
“The multiplier effects are large. Once the private sector is incentivised at this scale, you get improved land values, better financing conditions and stronger local economies,” he added.
