Africa University (AU) farm has received its center pivot purchased last year. The center pivot, made possible through funding from the Farm Development Fund was installed at the farm and will be in full use during the onset of the 2017 to 2018 farming season.
The new center pivot waters 13.2 hectares in one cycle, which is a radical shift from the lateral pipe irrigation system which had been in use on the farm. The center pivot will minimize water loses as a result of irregular and inefficient methods of irrigation used in the farm prior to the new center pivot. AU Farm Manager, Mr. Trevor Mupofu highlighted that the center pivot will enable the farm to improve on yields of field crops.
"We are moving with modern technology. The new technology will strengthen the teaching and delivery of instruction for students studying water conservation and irrigation engineering through offering a real practical feel," he said.
The Farm Development Fund is a pool of funds raised for development of the University farm by friends and partners of the University within the international network of the United Methodist Church. The initiative is led by Mr. Larry Kies who is a Lecturer in the Department of Agriculture and Natural Sciences and he is also the Technical Advisor for the University farm.
The AU farm has 80 hectares, arable for field crops. Going forward, the farm targets to increase its arable land to 100 hectares to improve the production capacity.
Ngaatendwe Murimba, Story Editor Tsitsi Kanonge, Africa University
One of seven apportioned giving opportunities of The United Methodist Church, the Africa University Fund transforms Africa by educating and empowering students from across the continent through Africa University, the first fully accredited, United Methodist-related educational institution on the continent. The Africa University Fund supports the general operating expenses of Africa University including faculty and staff salaries and vital infrastructure. Please encourage your leaders and congregations to support the Africa University Fund at 100 percent.
