Zvishamiso garden headlines ward 17 development projects

BY GLADWIN CHIWESHE

A youth-led initiative named Valley of Hope Organisation (VoH) is making significant strides in Chanuhwa village, Chimanimani. Their dedication and hard work have resulted in several projects that have positively impacted the community.

One of the notable achievements of VoH is the establishment of Zvishamiso nutritional garden that was funded by United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) under Global Environment Facility Small Grants Programme (GEF SGP).

To ensure its success, the organisation has undertaken various initiatives. They have constructed a sturdy fence around the garden, providing protection and security for crops and irrigation equipment. This fence not only acts as a barrier against external threats such as animals but also serves as a visual representation of the organisation’s commitment to nurturing a thriving garden.

Furthermore, VoH has constructed a tank stand to store water for the garden’s needs. This storage facility ensures that water is available even during dry spells or when the solar pump may be temporarily non-operational. By carefully managing water resources and having a backup supply, VoH has demonstrated their commitment to sustainable practices and ensuring the long-term success of the garden.

Recognising the importance of water accessibility, VoH conducted a borehole capacity testing to assess the availability of water in the area. The successful results of the test paved way for the installation of a solar pump.

This solar pump now efficiently extracts water from the borehole and pumps it to the garden, ensuring a consistent water supply even during periods of limited rainfall. This innovative solution not only reduces the organisation’s reliance on traditional energy sources but also minimizes the overall environmental impact.

Additionally, VoH has implemented terracing techniques to prevent soil erosion and optimise water distribution. By creating leveled platforms, they have effectively minimised the risk of soil being washed away during heavy rains. This not only helps in maintaining the fertility of the soil but also ensures that water reaches every part of the garden, promoting healthy plant growth.

To facilitate effective water distribution within the garden, VoH has dug trenches for pipes. These trenches serve as conduits, allowing water to flow seamlessly to every corner of the garden. This meticulous planning and execution ensures that no part of the garden is deprived of the vital resource it needs for proper nourishment and growth.

Excitingly, VoH has plans to further enhance the garden’s productivity by installing a drip irrigation system soon. This sustainable and efficient method of irrigation will deliver water directly to the plant roots, minimizing water wastage and maximizing crop yield. This forward-thinking approach not only saves water but also ensures that each plant receives just the right amount of moisture it requires for optimal growth.

Through these efforts, VoH did not only established a thriving nutritional garden but also empowered the community with valuable skills and resources. The beneficiaries have applauded VoH projects and are also looking forward to witnessing the continued growth and success of their initiatives.