Irrigation Mechanization in Zimbabwe

In our effort to increase smallholder farmers’ profitability through increased crop yields, this project will apply and enhance a solar suitability framework to identify water sources (e.g. surface water, groundwater and sand rivers, etc.) to support irrigation in targeted communities in Matabeleland North, Manicaland and Masvingo. This vital mapping will pinpoint areas that present the most lucrative market prospects for irrigation service providers, while promoting the sustainable management of water resources.

Outputs will include:

· Detailed maps that illustrate market opportunities;

· Evaluation and improvement of agricultural water management (AWM) practices, expansion of irrigation using renewable energy sources and evaluation of potential environmental trade-offs/risks through capacitation of smallholder farmers and the private sector actors;

· Assessment of the effect of scaling irrigation on water availability and usage;

· Development of a dashboard that would allow public and private sector to improve planning on potential markets for the solar irrigation pumps and ensuring the sustainable use of water resources;

· Development of low-cost Irrigation Starter Packs (ISPs) for service providers – solar and engine-driven models (for both surface and groundwater applications).