Sharleen Mohammed

Water shortages have long made farming difficult for villagers in Sanyati, especially those trying to grow vegetables for a living.

But that is beginning to change as a horticulture project is helping families improve their income and food security.

Speaking at a horticulture field day held in Ward 10, Sanyati District,  acting chief director in  the Ministry of Agricultural, Land, Fisheries,Water and Rural Development, Mr. Munamati, the said villagers are working together through a block farming system that makes planning and management easier.

“We have noticed that if we support communities like this, especially with proper water systems, horticulture can become a serious business,” said Mr. Munamati.

To help tackle water challenges, the government plans to convert the gardens into Village Business Units. This will allow for the drilling of solar-powered boreholes and the installation of drip irrigation systems, giving farmers access to water throughout the year.

One of the farmers, Mrs. Chengetai Mudzimu, welcomed the move: “Our gardens used to dry up before we could harvest anything. With water, we can grow more and earn more.”

Already, the gardens are changing lives. Farmers are selling fresh produce at local markets, and many are adding value by drying vegetables into mufushwa for sale or future use.

“This garden helps me send my children to school and buy food,” said Mr. Tinashe Dube, another local farmer.

The Sanyati horticulture efforts show how addressing local challenges with the right support can lead to lasting improvements in rural livelihoods.