The contribution of small scale irrigation schemes in enhancing household food security: case study of Chimhanda small-scale Irrigation scheme ward 15 Rushinga district
Abstract
This study seeks to determine the contribution of Chimhanda Small-scale Irrigation scheme
in enhancing household food security in Rushinga District ward 15. The objectives of the
study were to establish the socio-demographic profiles of Chimhanda Small-scale Irrigation
plot holders, to assess the contribution of Chimhanda Small-scale Irrigation scheme in
enhancing household food security in Rushinga ward 15 and to examine the sustainability of
Chimhanda Small-scale Irrigation scheme. Fifty questionnaires were administered to plot
holders participating in the growing of crops in Chimhanda Small-scale Irrigation scheme.
The findings indicated both males and females were involved in irrigation farming although
females were more than men, and most of the plot holders have basic education hence they
can read and write.Chimhanda Small-scale Irrigation scheme contributed greatly through
production of maize, beans, tomatoes, and vegetables that improved nutritional needs and
household food security. However, output produced has not adequately addressed the socioeconomic
problems of plot holders due to problems of proper market, lack of capital for
inputs acquisition and transport that negatively affect productivity. In order to increase
productivity, government and other interested stakeholders such as NGOs should fund
irrigation schemes since they increase household food security in semi- arid regions of
Zimbabwe.
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- Department of Geography [257]