25 Feb 2021

The Radihemelo Raw Water Project in Serowe, where treated wastewater is used for irrigation, was constructed in 2016 through the Economic Stimulus Programme, Parliament was informed.

Minister of Agricultural Development and Food Security, Mr Karabo Gare said the project covered 29 hectares.

He said the initial phase of the project entailed construction of water holding ponds, pumping station, water reticulation, internal gravel roads, ablution blocks, perimetre fence and an office block. 

However, he said due to the limited amount of water received at the treatment ponds, the plots were allocated in stages.

Mr Gare noted that stage one of the allocation covered 18 hectares and that eight hectares was allocated to the youth and 10 allocated to two anchor farmers who were allocated five hectares each. 

He also noted that the draft lease agreements had been given to the 10 farmers.

Furthermore, Mr Gare said the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Sport and Culture Development had funded the construction of 24 tunnels and the procurement of inputs for eight youth beneficiaries.

“Construction started in 2018 and was completed in 2019. My ministry is ensuring that the project is in full production through provision of technical support to the youth and ensuring that technical challenges experienced after the construction of the tunnels are rectified,” said Mr Gare

Serowe North MP, Mr Baratiwa Mathoothe had asked the minister to update Parliament on the status of the Radihemelo Raw Water Project in Serowe. ENDS