By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
GWANDA, 25 September 2025 – Once derailed by droughts, vandalism and broken pumps, the historic Tuli-Makwe Irrigation Scheme in Gwanda is now emerging as a symbol of resilience though not without fresh hurdles.
At a wheat field day held this week, the scheme showcased strong yields from its 30 hectares of wheat under pivot irrigation and 52 hectares watered by flooding, averaging 5 tonnes and 4.5 tonnes per hectare respectively.
With plans to expand into 120 hectares of maize next season, farmers are optimistic about hitting projected yields of 10 tonnes per hectare.
Despite the progress, the scheme faces pressing challenges Matabeleland South information Desk reports that ZESA power outages disrupt irrigation cycles, poor road networks limit market access, delayed Grain Marketing Board payments frustrate farmers, and youth involvement remains minimal, leaving production in the hands of women and elderly men.
Addressing the field day, Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Hon. Albert Nguluvhe, acknowledged both the achievements and the difficulties, urging farmers to embrace value addition and for businesses to establish local processing plants.
“We cannot continue sending raw produce to other provinces. Let’s add value here in Matabeleland South, create jobs, and build our economy,” he said.
He also stressed the need for youth participation to guarantee the scheme’s future.
The Minister pointed to ongoing projects such as the rehabilitation of the Gwanda–Mapisa road ahead of the 2026 Independence Day celebrations as a boost for market access and economic growth.
Agricultural partners such as SEEDCO are trialling new wheat varieties to find the best fit for Tuli-Makwe soils, while AGRITEX officers continue to provide technical support across the district.
For many farmers, the field day was a reminder that while the irrigation scheme has come far since its revival, sustainable growth will depend on solving energy, infrastructure and generational challenges.