Anthony Muzondo

The Smallholder Irrigation Revitalisation Programme (SIRP) has reported significant successes in efforts to improve irrigation systems and promote gender equality among smallholder farmers in rural Zimbabwe, it has been stated.

This came out during a Closeout Review Workshop held at Flamboyant Hotel in Masvingo recently.

The US$52 million programme was a partnership betweenm Government of Zimbabwe, International Fund for Agriculture Development (IFAD) and OPEC Fund for International Development (OFID).

The seven-year-programme, which ended in June 2024, was implemented in Manicaland, Masvingo, Matabeleland South and Midlands provinces.

It targeted 27 500 rural households to achieve food and nutrition security as well as resilience against effects of climate change and the resultant economic shocks.

Speaking during the event, SIRP Gender and Social Inclusion Coordinator Enestia Mudzingiri (pictured) said the programme reached 33 660 irrigators, surpassing initial targets.

A total of 13 179 males and 19 941 females benefitted; resulting in a 40 percent increase in women participation, and 25 percent increase in crop yield.

“To promote gender inclusion, we implemented a quota system where 50 percent proportion was set aside for women and 30 percent was to focus on youths vocational training.

“SIRP mainstreamed gender through the Gender Action Learning System (GALS) approach involving household methodologies like smart agriculture to eliminate barriers to accessing assets, decision-making, and leadership positions in the community and agribusiness. By so doing, we addressed barriers that limit women’s participation while creating a more equitable and sustainable sector.

“Our approach has not only improved irrigation systems but has also empowered women and youth to take on leadership roles and participate in decision-making processes,” said Mudzingiri.

Brian Garwe, a 26-year-old smallholder farmer and SIRP beneficiary from Chiredzi said the programme changed his life as a farmer because he learned good agricultural practices.

 “Before the programme, I used to grow tomatoes only for household consumption but farming is now a business generating for me at least US$2400 profit per month,” said Garwe.

Netsai Mutangire, a beneficiary from Mushandike resettlement area, said the programme had given her confidence to become a leader in women’s groups.

“I now spend more time at the irrigation scheme and I advocate for the agricultural rights and interests of women” Mutangire said.