The revitalised Dewure Irrigation Scheme in Zimbabwe’s Buhera District is helping nearly 500 farmers produce crops in a drought-prone area, demonstrating the role of irrigation in strengthening rural food security and agricultural resilience.

In a report published on 18 October 2026, Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC) said farmers were producing promising maize crops through improved water management, community participation and the adoption of modern agricultural practices.

Farmers interviewed by ZBC reported that the scheme had improved their ability to produce food, earn income and support their families. They also described selling produce beyond Buhera, including to Mutare, Masvingo, Gwanda and Bulawayo.

The benefits are extending into neighbouring Bikita District, where traders and farmers are sourcing tomatoes from the irrigation area when supplies are unavailable locally. This demonstrates how irrigation-supported production can contribute not only to household food security but also to local food distribution and commercial activity.

The scheme is particularly significant as Zimbabwe prepares for another challenging cropping season, with authorities concerned about the risk of El Niño-related drought. The government has identified irrigation rehabilitation, improved water management and drought mitigation as important elements of its agricultural response.

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture, Mechanisation and Water Resources Development Professor Obert Jiri said the government was also focusing on strategic grain reserves, financing for the summer cropping season, livestock support and early-warning information.

Irrigation can help farmers reduce their dependence on rainfall, but its long-term effectiveness depends on reliable water supplies, functioning infrastructure and careful management of available resources.

The Dewure scheme offers an example of how investment in agricultural water infrastructure can help maintain production in dry regions. Expanding similar initiatives could support more consistent food supplies, improve rural livelihoods and strengthen Zimbabwe’s capacity to manage climate-related production risks.