By Jonathan Mbiriyamveka
In rural Zimbabwe, families are grappling with increasingly severe droughts that threaten their livelihoods.
The country, heavily reliant on agriculture, finds its small-scale farmers—who produce over 60% of the nation’s food—particularly vulnerable.
The erratic rainfall patterns have decimated crops and livestock, forcing many to abandon farming.
Efforts to mitigate these effects are slow.
Zimbabwe’s agricultural sector contributes approximately 17% to GDP and employs 70% of the workforce, predominantly in rural areas.
According to the Zimbabwe Meteorological Services Department, rainfall has declined by 15% over the last two decades, while the frequency of droughts has increased.
Shashe River
Experts’ Insights
Climate experts warn that without immediate action, Zimbabwe could face a food security crisis.
“Investing in drought-resistant crops, improved irrigation systems, and renewable energy is crucial,” says climate researcher Dr. Nokuthula Zondo.
While international organizations and local NGOs have implemented drought-resistant farming techniques and irrigation projects, their reach remains limited.
A lack of investment in renewable energy and modern farming infrastructure compounds the issue.
Calls for a national strategy on climate resilience grow louder, with experts emphasizing the need for government-led reforms that prioritize vulnerable communities.
For Zimbabwe, tackling climate change isn’t just about environmental sustainability; it’s about ensuring food security and lifting millions out of poverty.
Communities like Bwanya in Chivi District of Masvingo Province are pinning their hopes on the soon to be established irrigation scheme.
The Government-led project is supported by Green Climate Fund, together with United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) seeks to support Government in strengthening the resilience of agricultural livelihoods of vulnerable communities, particularly women, in southern Zimbabwe to increasing climate risks and impacts.
Some 306 households are set to benefit from the 156-hectare climate resilient irrigation scheme.
The scheme is part of the USD 47.8 million, total resource envelope for the entire Climate Resilient Livelihoods Project and it will use a combination of centre pivots and a semi-permanent sprinkler system.
A total of 72ha will be under centre pivots, and 84ha will be under a semi-permanent sprinkler system. And water will be drawn from the existing Shashe Weir on Shashe River, downstream of Muzhwi Dam.
The Bwanya is one of the 21 irrigation schemes earmarked for climate proofing by the project while the civil works at Bwanya are valued at 962,951.00.
Chief Madamombe (Mr Lastworth Chiondegwa) could not hide his joy now that the irrigation was taking shape in his drought prone area.
Chief Madamombe
“Obviously, we are happy with the development and cannot wait to start farming. This area had challenges when it comes to growing maize. We had resorted to traditional grains, but with the coming in of Government and its partners, we are optimistic that we will manage to plant maize and produce abundantly.
“In clearing the land, we work together as a community. This unity and zeal among individuals show that we are happy and committed to see this project work for the betterment of our livelihoods,” Chief Madamombe said.
It appears with the good news that the irrigation will be connected to electricity within a week or two, the community couldn’t be happier.
“These people you see gathered here today donated their land in order for the initiative to materialise. We are waiting for electricity to be connected for us to kick-start our operations. I am hopeful that we will plant maize this farming season. That is our target as a group,” said.
He thanked the Government through Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development Minister, Dr Anxious Masuka who availed land clearing equipment since some parts are rocky.
A large portion of land was cleared in preparation for the cropping to start.
Chairperson of the irrigation scheme, Mr Ekem Tinago (36) said the project also drew participants from all age groups and across political divide with a view to empowering the community on a long-term basis.
“This project has come as a relief to the community as you can see that most of the people had abandoned this place to do stream bank cultivation. With this opportunity, new doors have been opened for us as we now have something to pin our lives on in terms of employment.
Women and youth among vulnerable groups are involved in the Bwanya irrigation scheme
“We have included everyone in the project. We have women, men, the old who are over 60, and also those living with disability as we do not want to leave anyone behind as we carry out our farming activities. We are only waiting for a bulldozer to return and assist us in clearing the remaining part of the land. We are more than ready to start farming. The water test run was done by the contractor using a generator. They pumped water in the field, and we were over the moon as a community to see water gushing out, nourishing our sun-baked soil,” said Mr Tinago.
As Zimbabwe’s farmers adapt to a harsher climate, they need stronger government support and international cooperation.
Addressing this crisis isn’t just about survival—it’s about securing the country’s economic and social future.
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