10 irrigation schemes rehabilitated in Mat South 

Food security and nutrition as well as household incomes are set to improve  in Matabeleland South Province following the rehabilitation of 10 irrigation schemes under the Small Holder Irrigation Programme.

The four-year Small Holder Irrigation Programme funded by the European Union to the tune of US$6 million and was targeted at Matabeleland South and Manicaland provinces is set to end this December.

The Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), which is facilitating the programme together with government, says significant work has been done at the 10 irrigation schemes in the Matabeleland South with some of the facilities fitted with smart irrigation technology.

FAO Provincial Facilitator, Mr Aaron Bwerinofa said the Command Agriculture Programme has also addressed issues of inputs and lack of markets that were faced by the small holder irrigation farmers .

Farmers, who spoke to the ZBC News, expressed commitment to ensuring that food production is enhanced.

Schemes that have been rehabilitated include Thuli Lushongwe in Gwanda, Kwalu, Bili, River Ranch and Jalukanga in Beitbridge, Valley, Tshatshani and Mbembeswane in Matobo as well as Moza and Tshangwa in Bulilima.

At least 600 families are going to benefit from schemes which have a total of 613 hectares.