Trymore Tagwirei

In the drought-prone district of Chivi, where scorching temperatures and erratic rainfall threaten rural livelihoods, one young farmer is rewriting the narrative through climate-smart agriculture.

Pithias Rubaya, a resident of Muzondo Village in Ward 4, has transformed his homestead into a thriving agricultural hub by investing in solar-powered boreholes and a drip irrigation system.

The initiative, launched in 2017 alongside his mother, Aquilina Paradza Rubaya, has become a beacon of resilience and innovation.

“We started this project years ago, and I am grateful to those who guided us on best farming practices.

“What started was an idea fuelled by passion. There is life through farming and people need to invest in the land they have no matter how small. What we are doing here is testament to the fact that we can earn a living through farming.

“Our land here is slightly above a hectare but that did not limit us,” said Rubaya.

Today, the Rubaya homestead is a hive of activity, boasting flourishing crops of cabbage, tomatoes, maize, and other vegetables, alongside livestock such as cattle, goats, and sheep.

Their fresh produce is sold to major markets in Masvingo and Zvishavane, generating a steady income.

For Aquilina, 69, who oversees the garden and livestock while her son is at work, the impact has been profound.

“This programme has helped us build decent homes and improve our standard of living. Irrigation projects like this are a lifeline for rural communities, especially here in Masvingo where rainfall is scarce and temperatures are high,” said Aquilina.

Chivi residents have long battled drought and poor rainfall, but irrigation-fed agriculture is emerging as a sustainable solution, enabling families to meet basic needs and earn a living.

Ward 4 Councillor Elphas Runoenda praised the Rubaya family for pioneering resilience in the community.

“We need more families like the Rubayas. If more households adopt these methods, Chivi will be transformed,” he said.

Agritex officer Stanley Mapfumo echoed the sentiment, urging farmers to embrace innovative practices.

“As business advisors, we are proud of this project. Chivi is dry, and smart farming is the way forward. The Rubaya family has set a model worth emulating,” said Mapfumo.