Irrigation, the artificial application of water to soil or land to assist in the production of agricultural crops has greatly contributed to the improvement of the standards of living of people par-taking in farming activities.

From irrigation proceeds, a local farmer, Mr. Mhizha is living a life far above those who are on a monthly salary. He has managed to electrify his home. When asked how much the project drew from his coffers, he said, “It’s close to the cost of 10 big beasts.” Implying that it was an expensive project. Close by Mr. Mabhoko has also managed to put a fence around his home. He also estimates the project to have cost close to US$5 000 dollars. These families can afford bread, sugar and other goods needed for their daily family consumption. They complement these with traditional foods like sweet potatoes and roundnuts which they grow in their irrigation plots. On average each family has a 0.2 hectare plot and it is out of this that they manage their livelihood. The nation bemoans high levels of unemployment yet for these families, all are employed throughout the year.

Elsewhere, around Siya dam in Bengura village, this winter, they wake up early in the morning and start on their errands in search of traditional beer. They made the loudest noise against the government project to commence an irrigation project. They argued that they could not relocate leaving behind their father’s and other relative’s graves. They are also arguing that irrigations do not allow them rest. They lament that they cannot work throughout the year.

Mrs Dhliwayo, a resident in the area dismissed the idea of irrigations, “Kuita vanhu sevachabuda musana nokukotama kuti tadii?”

Mr Geke from the same area is not for the idea of irrigations. Mr. Geke said, “Iyo hurumende ngaitipe mabasa kwete zveirrigation izvi. Tinenge tingori mumamisha muno nevana vasina mabasa ava”.

By Timothy Ndongwe (Citizen journalists)