Zimbabwe signs USD 227M agreement deal to boost agricultural irrigation

ZIMBABWE – Zimbabwe has taken a significant step to improve its agricultural sector by signing two agreements worth a total of USD 227 million aimed at strengthening irrigation systems.

The Zimbabwean government, in collaboration with the private sector, has signed two crucial agreements to enhance agricultural irrigation.

The first agreement, valued at USD 172 million, was established with Valley Irrigation. This project aims to deploy a central pivot irrigation system over 23,000 hectares.

The second agreement involves Spanish company Grupo Charmatin, which will irrigate 12,725 hectares at a cost of approximately USD 55 million.

These initiatives are part of the government’s effort to increase agricultural production and reduce the sector’s vulnerability to climatic changes.

According to authorities, Zimbabwe has an irrigation potential of 2.2 million hectares, thanks to its 10,000 dams and ample water resources.

However, current data from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) indicate that less than 200,000 hectares are equipped for irrigation.

Growing Market and Export Opportunities

Zimbabwe’s fruit and vegetable market is projected to reach USD 2.64 billion by 2029, up from an estimated USD 2.19 billion in 2024.

This growth is driven by a rising demand for processed food items like juices, ketchup, and edible oils. The country is largely self-sufficient in fruit and vegetable supply, with vegetable production in 2020 estimated at 228,485 metric tons.

The harvested area for vegetables that year was around 33,744 hectares, showing a 1% increase from the previous year.

“The increase in production is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our farmers,” said a government spokesperson. “With these new irrigation projects, we aim to further boost productivity and ensure food security.”

The export market for Zimbabwean crops is thriving, supported by government initiatives promoting adherence to phytosanitary conditions. Cooperative irrigation schemes also play a crucial role in this growth.

As awareness about food quality, traceability, and sustainability increases, market dynamics are changing, creating new opportunities for Zimbabwean farmers.

Sign up to receive our email newsletters with the latest news updates and insights from Africa and the World HERE.