Rédaction Africa Links 24 with wenceslaus
Published on 2024-02-01 22:02:40
The completion of the Lake Gwayi-Shangani project marks a significant opportunity for the development of Matabeleland South. This project is expected to not only provide water to the region but also increase land under irrigation, contributing to the growth of the agriculture sector.
The Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development director of irrigation, Sikhulekelani Moyo, highlighted the potential benefits that the completion of Lake Gwayi-Shangani will bring to Matabeleland South. As dams which are currently supplying Bulawayo with water will be redirected to the agriculture sector, it is expected that more land will come under irrigation.
Matabeleland South has long been considered a dry region, facing challenges with water scarcity and limited agricultural opportunities. The completion of the Lake Gwayi-Shangani project will not only address these issues but also unlock the region’s agricultural potential, paving the way for economic development and food security.
The redirection of water from the dams to agricultural purposes will have a transformative impact on Matabeleland South. The increased land under irrigation will allow for the cultivation of a diverse range of crops, boosting agricultural production in the region. This, in turn, will create employment opportunities and stimulate economic growth in the area.
Furthermore, the project will contribute to the sustainability of water resources in Matabeleland South. By utilizing water from the dams for irrigation, the region will be able to optimize its water usage and reduce reliance on rain-fed agriculture. This sustainable approach to water management will not only benefit the agriculture sector but also support the overall ecosystem and environment in the region.
In addition to agricultural benefits, the completion of Lake Gwayi-Shangani will also improve the livelihoods of the local communities in Matabeleland South. As irrigation schemes are developed, smallholder farmers will have access to reliable water sources for their crops, enhancing their food security and income generation. This will contribute to poverty alleviation and improve the standard of living for the people in the region.
The completion of the Lake Gwayi-Shangani project is a testament to the government’s commitment to fostering sustainable development in Matabeleland South. By investing in water infrastructure and promoting agricultural growth, the region is poised to undergo a significant transformation that will benefit both the economy and the local communities.
It is important to note that the success of the Lake Gwayi-Shangani project will also depend on effective management and utilization of the water resources. The government, in collaboration with relevant stakeholders, will need to ensure that the water from the dams is allocated and distributed efficiently to maximize its impact on agricultural development in Matabeleland South.
In conclusion, the completion of Lake Gwayi-Shangani holds great promise for the development of Matabeleland South. By increasing land under irrigation and redirecting water from the dams to the agriculture sector, the project is expected to stimulate economic growth, improve food security, and enhance the livelihoods of the local communities. With proper management and utilization, the project has the potential to transform Matabeleland South into a thriving agricultural hub, contributing to the overall development of the region.
Read Original article on The Herald
