Staff Reporter

The Murambinda Irrigation Scheme is playing a critical role in enhancing food security in the Buhera district, even as the region grapples with the impacts of an El Niño-induced drought.

During yesterday’s tour of the irrigation facilities, the Chairman of the Murambinda Irrigation Scheme, William Muridzi, highlighted the positive outcomes of the project.

"Farmers are producing sufficient food to sustain the surrounding communities," he explained.

Muridzi also mentioned the innovative payment system in place, where villagers unable to afford cash for essentials like maize, groundnuts, and cabbages can instead contribute labour in the fields.

According to Muridzi, the scheme is not only a source of sustenance but has also become a business venture for local farmers.

However, Murambinda Vice Chairman Lameck Boas noted that the irrigation project had previously faced significant water shortages. This changed after the 2020 commissioning of Marovanyati Dam by President Emmerson Mnangagwa, which now ensures ample water supply for the entire irrigation scheme.

Boas expressed concerns about surplus production leading to market saturation and highlighted the deteriorating condition of the scheme’s water canal, which suffers from leaks. He appealed for support in repairing the infrastructure.

"Tirikutsvagawo rubatsiro kune vanokwanisa kutibatsira kugadzirisa canal yedu, kuti ifambise mvura pasina inorasika," meaning "We are also looking for assistance from those who can help us repair our canal to ensure water is not wasted,”  said Boas.

Meanwhile, persistent droughts have posed severe food security challenges throughout Zimbabwe’s ten provinces, prompting President Mnangagwa to declare a state of disaster following the low harvest of the 2023–2024 farming season.

In response, the Government has been actively mobilising food aid to support vulnerable families across the nation.