Over 400 hectares of new Sugarcane plant at Mkwasine estate, Chiredzi North, are wilting, barely three days after a major breakdown at Manjirenji dam.
By Staff Reporters
The dam is the main supplier of irrigating irrigating water to Mkwasine sugar cane farms, and there is no any alternative for farmers in the event of such a breakdown.
From the day the major breakdown happened, (6 November) at Manjirenji dam, Chiredzi has been receiving soaring heat, an average of 42°, due to the current national heat wave.
Only early rains, as forecasted by the Meteological department will save the situation.
The Zimbabwe National Water Authority (ZINWA) communications manager Marjorie Munyongwa said her team is working flat out to restore operations at the dam.
She sympathised with farmers over the issue, but was not sure as to when the repairs will be completed.
“Our teams are still on the ground working on the repairs. Unfortunately water can only be supplied through the Manjirenji system. We will continue to update you as repairs are going on” she said.
The breakdown at Manjirenji dam will not affect farmers only, but animal Conservancies like Malilangwe and Chipimbi safaris.
Also affected are residents in Chiredzi town, Mapanza, Njiri farm, Shiloh Estate, South Eastern College and all those who rely on Chiredzi river as a water source.
