BY SIBUSISEKILE NDLANGAMANDLA
MANZINI – Farmers in the Lomati River Basin are set to benefit from solar-powered pumping and drip irrigation as part of efforts to improve water-use efficiency, food security and livelihoods.
The interventions are planned for the Bambanani Farmers Association and Tentele Make Farmers Association under the Lomati Farm wise Smart Agriculture Project, which is being implemented as part of the Global Environment Facility-funded IncoMaputo Component 4 demonstration projects.
During a recent site visit to communities in the Lomati River Basin, participants observed how the proposed technologies could support farmers in making more efficient use of available water while strengthening local food production.
At Bambanani Farmers Association, the proposed introduction of solar-powered pumping and drip irrigation demonstrated how practical technology can be used to support agricultural production while improving the efficiency of water use.
The approach is also planned for Tentele Make Farmers Association, where solar pumping and drip irrigation will form part of interventions aimed at strengthening farming activities while protecting the surrounding environment.
The project’s focus extends beyond agricultural production, linking water efficiency with livelihoods, ecosystem resilience and sustainable management of the river basin. The site visit also exposed challenges that could affect water security and agricultural productivity if left unaddressed.
At Mkhovu 1, participants assessed the deterioration of a water-delivery canal, highlighting the importance of maintaining infrastructure that supports reliable access to water for agricultural activities. At Mawelawela Dip Tank, the team observed land degradation and soil erosion and heard from community members about restoration efforts and the challenges they continue to face.
Also, at Gauging Station 34, participants engaged with the water-quality monitoring programme, which is intended to generate evidence that can support informed water-resource management.
The project is funded by the Global Environment Facility, implemented by the United Nations Development Programme Eswatini and executed by the Global Water Partnership Southern Africa.
It supports basin-wide planning, climate and disaster-risk preparedness, improved water data and information systems, and source-to-sea approaches to water-resource management.
Through solar pumping, drip irrigation, infrastructure maintenance, land restoration and water-quality monitoring, the project seeks to connect practical community interventions with wider efforts to strengthen water security and sustainable development in the Lomati River Basin.
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