By Tonderai Saharo
The United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) has played a pivotal role in supporting communities affected by natural disasters and promoting long-term resilience in Zimbabwe.
Agriculture is the backbone of the economy, but smallholder farmers face numerous challenges emanating from natural disasters and climate change.
The Project has also empowered women- Chaonwa PIC News-daily
However, the focal Person for ork Component 2 Wellington Chaonwa said the $51 million project, launched in 2016 was meant to revitalize irrigation schemes across Zimbabwe.
The project has benefited over 30,000 households, including poor smallholder farmers, youth, and women.
Chaonwa said so far, the project has rehabilitated 17 irrigation schemes in Masvingo, benefiting numerous villages, improved irrigation infrastructure and agricultural productivity covering approximately 5,200 hectares across four provinces in the country.
"The project has enhanced livelihoods of smallholder farmers, empowered women and youth through gender-balanced access to irrigated land.
"It has also promoted Good Agricultural Practices and business-oriented approaches and increased crop yields, incomes, and resilience among smallholder farmers. UNOPS provided advisory services, ensuring projects stayed on track," said Chaonwa
UNOPS Officer in Charge Clement Mhlanga said UNOPS was invited to support the Ministry of Lands in completing unfinished irrigation schemes.
He said as SIRP project reaches completion, its impact will be felt for years to come, contributing to Zimbabwe's agricultural growth and development.
Mhlanga said this achievement showcases UNOPS' commitment to sustainable development and community empowerment.
“SIRP's success demonstrates the power of collaboration, with multiple stakeholders working together to achieve a common goal. As the program ends, its legacy will live on, empowering smallholder farmers to build a brighter future.
"With UNOPS' continued support, Zimbabwe's agricultural sector is poised for transformation, ensuring a more resilient and prosperous future for generations to come," said Mhlanga.
UNOPS' work in Zimbabwe serves as a model for sustainable development and community empowerment.
The Smallholder Irrigation Revitalization Program (SIRP) was co-financed by the Government of Zimbabwe, Opec Fund for International Development (OFID) and the International Fund for Agriculture Development.
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