Farmers are expecting a big maize harvest after reviving a stalled irrigation project. At the Bhulaayo Kraal Irrigation Scheme in Binga District, fifty hectares of maize are now planted under a center pivot system. This marks a turnaround for the flagship project, which suffered years of delays and underused infrastructure before its rehabilitation by the Agricultural and Rural Development Authority. The government is remodeling the entire fifteen-thousand-hectare scheme, with two hundred fifty hectares cleared so far for phased development.
Binga District Development Coordinator Land Kabome stated the push aims to boost local food security. He also reported strong progress at the nearby Saba Valley Irrigation Scheme, where fifteen hectares of maize and five hectares of legumes are thriving. Multiple small nutrition gardens across the district further support household food supplies.
This irrigation drive is part of broader efforts to develop the historically marginalized Binga district. Preparations have begun for two new irrigation schemes near the soon-to-be-completed Lake Gwayi Shangani. A master plan and environmental assessment are underway for two hundred hectares, following a cabinet decision granting Binga water rights from the lake. The lake itself, a key part of the long-planned Matabeleland Zambezi Water Project, stretches fifty-two kilometers within Binga District. Upon completion, it will supply Bulawayo via a pipeline and is expected to transform agriculture and industry across the arid region.
Binga District Development Coordinator Land Kabome stated the push aims to boost local food security. He also reported strong progress at the nearby Saba Valley Irrigation Scheme, where fifteen hectares of maize and five hectares of legumes are thriving. Multiple small nutrition gardens across the district further support household food supplies.
This irrigation drive is part of broader efforts to develop the historically marginalized Binga district. Preparations have begun for two new irrigation schemes near the soon-to-be-completed Lake Gwayi Shangani. A master plan and environmental assessment are underway for two hundred hectares, following a cabinet decision granting Binga water rights from the lake. The lake itself, a key part of the long-planned Matabeleland Zambezi Water Project, stretches fifty-two kilometers within Binga District. Upon completion, it will supply Bulawayo via a pipeline and is expected to transform agriculture and industry across the arid region.
