ZINWA Assures Ample Winter Irrigation Water Supply
Zimbabwe National Water Authority (ZINWA) has assured winter farmers of an adequate water supply to meet their irrigation needs during the winter cropping season. The announcement was made by Dr Anxious Masuka, the Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water, and Rural Development.
According to Dr Masuka, as of May 6, the national average dam level stood at 77 percent, surpassing the expected average of 71.2 percent for this time of year. The country’s dams and other water sources currently hold enough water to irrigate approximately 141,000 hectares of land. The irrigation capacity ranges from 5 megalitres per hectare (ML/Ha) to 7 ML/Ha, depending on the agro-ecological region, type of irrigation system, and other factors.
“The Government has set a target of at least 120 000 hectares to be put under winter wheat during the 2024 winter cropping season.
“In view of this development and to ensure the effective and sustainable harnessing of the available water resources, all farmers and other entities wishing to irrigate during the season, are advised to sign water abstraction agreements with ZINWA,” said Dr Masuka.
Dr Masuka also provided contact details for ZINWA’s catchment and provincial offices, encouraging farmers to reach out for assistance with water allocation modalities. The offices are available in all eight provinces of the country.
Zimbabwe has made significant progress in the agricultural sector under the Second Republic, achieving record-breaking yields in cereals and grain production.
The government’s strategic planning and policies aimed at promoting agriculture have transformed the country from a position of food shortages to one of food self-sufficiency. Despite challenges posed by El-Nino this season, the government remains committed to achieving food security, self-sufficiency, wheat self-sufficiency, and nutrition security by 2025.
Farmers are encouraged to take advantage of the available water resources and work closely with ZINWA to maximize the benefits of irrigation. With adequate water supply assured, Zimbabwe’s winter farmers can look forward to a successful cropping season and contribute to the country’s ongoing efforts towards agricultural development and food security.
