Staff Reporter
Government has embarked on a significant initiative to ensure water availability in both rural and urban areas in an effort to address the water supply challenges across the country.
This strategy includes the drilling of additional boreholes, with 26 rigs actively deployed across the country's ten provinces, and the advancement of dam construction projects, all in response to the water shortages exacerbated by the El Nino phenomenon.
The 2023/24 rainfall season, impacted by El Nino, has heightened the risk of water scarcity in various communities throughout Zimbabwe.
In light of these challenges, the Minister of Information, Publicity, and Broadcasting Services, Jenfan Muswere, detailed the Government's proactive measures during yesterday’s post-cabinet press brief.
The Minister highlighted the pivotal role of the Zimbabwe National Water Authority (ZINWA) in drilling and equipping boreholes as part of the Presidential Rural Development Programme.
“Zimbabwe National Water Authority has drilled and equipped boreholes under the Presidential Rural Development Programme. A total of two hundred and two Business Units have been established. Household beneficiaries’ dividends for Village Business Units range between US$50.77 and US$73.33 per household per month from crops and fishery projects, indicating the transformational nature of the Presidential Rural Development Programme,” Minister Muswere shared.
Further, Minister Muswere revealed the Government's financial commitment of approximately US$1 465 017 towards the revitalization of Harare's water supply system.
The aim is to increase the City's water production capacity from 301 mega litres per day to 520 mega litres.
“The production capacity for Harare currently stands at 301 mega litres per day. Ongoing work at Morton Jefrey will increase production to 520 mega litres per day. To date, Government has contributed ZW$8 634 000 000 (US$1 465 017. 00) to finance the resuscitation of the Harare City water supply. A total of US$4 916 523.49 is required to enable the supply of the targeted 520 mega litres per day,” the Minister elaborated.
In Bulawayo, the Government's efforts include the drilling of 79 boreholes and a financial injection of US$1.2 million to enhance the City's water supply, with an additional US$15 299 751 needed to reach the desired supply capacity of 155 mega litres per day.
Highlighting the progress in dam construction, Minister Muswere noted that 12 dam projects are currently underway, with Lake Gwayi-Shangani in Matabeleland North reaching 70.2% completion and Kunzvi Dam in Mashonaland East Province at 47% completion.
The completion of Lake Gwayi-Shangani is particularly prioritised for 2024, underscoring the Government's commitment to securing the nation's water resources amidst changing climatic conditions.
