Government targets 496,000 hectares under irrigation by 2030, backs local piping capacity

HARARE — The government is prioritizing the rapid expansion of irrigation infrastructure as a cornerstone of national food security, with a target to bring 496,000 hectares under irrigation by 2030.

Prof Jiri, speaking on July 24, said the plan hinges on supportive infrastructure and equipment being available across the country. 

He identified water conveyance as the immediate bottleneck, noting that piping from dams and other water sources to fields remains one of the largest cost drivers in irrigation development.

Assessments underway are focused on both bulk conveyance and infield piping. According to Prof Jiri, moving water efficiently from reservoirs to farm blocks requires significant investment in pipes and related materials before any pivot or delivery system can operate.

The cost burden is substantial. Prof Jiri said piping alone for areas in excess of 4,000 hectares can run into major expenditure, outside of the cost of pivots and other distribution mechanisms. 

That figure, he noted, underscores why government is scrutinizing domestic preparedness.

Officials are now evaluating local manufacturing and supply capacity for pipes and fittings. Prof Jiri said it is critical to determine whether Zimbabwe can produce and install the materials needed at scale, rather than relying heavily on imports that could delay projects.

Despite the cost pressures, he expressed optimism about domestic capability. "We are happy to see that the capacity in terms of conveying is certainly in this country and we are geared to deliver irrigation for the nation," Prof Jiri said.

The 2030 target forms part of broader agricultural transformation plans aimed at reducing reliance on rain-fed cropping. 

Expanding irrigated land is expected to stabilize yields, support winter production, and cushion the sector against climate variability.

With planning now shifting to procurement and rollout, government says the next phase will focus on mobilizing financing, securing equipment, and ensuring that piping networks are in place to move water from source to field as irrigation schemes are commissioned.