Bigboy Madhochi (right) and a farm worker
Cephas Shava in Mwenezi
10 feb 2017 – MWENEZI – A small-scale Mwenezi farmer has become a shining example to the community of Rutenga Ranch’s ward 13 under Chief Neshuro as some local farmers have begun to copy his mini-irrigation scheme.
Bigboy Madhochi owns almost seven hectares of land but unlike his fellows, Madhochi is fully utilising three hectares of land throughout the year, drawing water from a borehole he drilled at his home.
“My dream is to put the whole land into full use throughout the year. I have got three full time workers and despite the challenges, I will definitely increase my workforce. Besides growing crops I am also constructing feedlots because I want to venture into cattle ranching,” said Madhochi
A recent visit by TellZim News to the area revealed that a number of people in the area who used to rely solely on rain for cultivation have begun to drill boreholes with the intention of initiating an irrigation scheme that is similar to Madhochi’s.
Villagers interviewed gave credit to Madhochi whom they said was their source of inspiration.
Mudhochi started from scratch; buying and selling cattle but is now a successful farmer growing a variety of crops for sale. He is currently supplying the community around Rutenga with his farm produce and is looking forward to expand his market base.local