Chronicle Editor
Nobukhosi Ndlovu, Sunday News Reporter
THE Government, through the Presidential Borehole drilling initiative, has commenced drilling boreholes and installing solar-powered irrigation facilities in Plumtree and Buhera District in Manicaland.
The aim of this initiative is to address water challenges and improve people’s livelihoods in these areas. Prevail Group International (PGI) has been contracted by the Zimbabwe National Water Authority (Zinwa) to drill approximately 10 000 boreholes and set up irrigation facilities.
In Buhera District, Manicaland Province, 60 boreholes have already been drilled, with a target of 100 boreholes to be completed before Independence Day. The drilling and installation of boreholes are being expedited due to the severe water crisis facing Plumtree, exacerbated by an El Nino-induced drought that has caused many water sources to dry up. Villagers in Plumtree have been forced to undertake long and arduous journeys to fetch water.
PGI’s chairman, Mr Paul Tungwarara, stated that the drilling teams have been working tirelessly, including during the Easter holiday, to ensure that the communities have access to clean water.
The boreholes being installed are solar-powered, and their purpose is to provide safe and adequate water within a 500-metre radius, in accordance with Government policy. The project aims to alleviate water-borne diseases and improve the overall health and well-being of the communities.
Furthermore, Mr Tungwarara emphasised that the project also seeks to address gender-related challenges caused by water shortages and climate change. The goal is to relieve women and girl children from the burden of walking long distances to fetch water, ensuring that water is available at convenient distances for them.
In addition to Plumtree, Buhera District is also set to benefit from 100 solar-powered boreholes ahead of the 44th Independence Day celebrations near Murambinda Growth Point. As of now, 60 boreholes have been drilled in Buhera, and the target of 100 boreholes is expected to be achieved before April 18.
The installation of solar-powered irrigation facilities as part of the Presidential Borehole drilling initiative is expected to have several positive impacts on the livelihoods of the communities in Plumtree and Buhera. Here are some ways in which these facilities can contribute to improving livelihoods:
The availability of reliable irrigation water through solar-powered systems enables farmers to cultivate their land throughout the year, regardless of rainfall patterns. This leads to increased agricultural productivity and improved crop yields. Farmers can grow a wider range of crops, including high-value cash crops, which can enhance their income and food security.
With access to water for irrigation, communities can engage in diversified agricultural activities beyond subsistence farming. They can explore commercial farming, horticulture, or livestock production, depending on the suitability of the region. Diversification of livelihoods reduces dependence on a single income source and enhances economic resilience.
The establishment of irrigation facilities can create employment opportunities within the communities. Farmers may require assistance with land preparation, planting, irrigation management and harvesting. Moreover, the expansion of agricultural activities can stimulate the growth of agribusinesses, leading to job creation in related sectors such as processing, marketing, and distribution.
By improving agricultural productivity and enabling farmers to engage in commercial activities, solar-powered irrigation facilities can contribute to increased incomes for individuals and households. This, in turn, helps reduce poverty levels within the communities. Farmers can generate surplus produce for sale in local markets or even access regional or national markets, thereby boosting their economic well-being.
Reliable access to irrigation water allows for consistent food production, reducing the vulnerability of communities to food shortages and famines. The availability of diverse crops throughout the year improves dietary diversity and nutrition, contributing to better health outcomes.
Solar-powered irrigation systems often utilise water-efficient technologies, such as drip irrigation or precision irrigation techniques. These methods reduce water wastage and promote sustainable water management practices. Conservation of water resources ensures their availability for future generations and helps mitigate the impact of water scarcity.
Overall, the introduction of solar-powered irrigation facilities can have a transformative effect on the livelihoods of communities by promoting agricultural productivity, income generation, employment, food security, and sustainable resource management.
Online Reporter