Shinga irrigation scheme

Abstract

Lack of water for human and livestock consumption as well as for gardening is one of the major constraints for farmers in Mudzi district. During a planning seminar with farmer representatives and extension staff, it was therefore agreed that promotion of horticultural production through the realisation of small-scale irrigation schemes should be a priority for the Mudzi District Agricultural Development Project (Mudzi A.D.P.). The Shinga Irrigation Scheme is the first scheme constructed with assistance from Mudzi A.D.P. The first attempt to construct an irrigation scheme in Shinga date back to 1987, when a study indicated that an area of about 8 ha at 1 km distance from the dam-wall could be served by gravity. Farmers were mobilised and organised themselves in an irrigation committee. Unfortunately, later surveys, carried out by the AGRITEX Irrigation Branch, proved that the site was not really suitable for a gravity-fed irrigation scheme. People were left frustrated after all these surveys without any real action taken. However immediately downstream of Shinga dam, a terrain of 1.88 ha was identified to be suitable for gravity-fed irrigation. A detailed survey was carried out in April and May 1992 by the local Agricultural Extension Officer, Conservation. The construction works started in June 1992 after two preparatory meetings with the members of the previously established irrigation group were held and an agreement of co-operation signed between the irrigation committee, Mudzi A.D.P., Agritex and District Development Funds to define the division of tasks and the responsibilities for all parties involved.