Staff Reporter
Government has resolved to expedite the development of the Tugwi-Mukosi Dam in a move poised to transform the nation's economic landscape and bolster food security.
The announcement was made yesterday by the Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Dr. Jenfan Muswere, during a media briefing held after the Cabinet session.
"Following the development of the Lake Tugwi-Mukosi Combination Masterplan by Honourable Vice President, General (Rtd) Dr. CGDN Chiwenga, in his capacity as chairman of the Cabinet Committee on Food Security and Nutrition, and in view of the growing interest from a number of investors to commence major economic activities and investments around the lake, Cabinet directed that the implementation of the aforementioned masterplan be expedited," Dr. Muswere said.
Minister Muswere added that the Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, as the Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet Committee on Food Security and Nutrition, would oversee the fast-tracking of the plan to ensure swift progress on land, water, and fisheries-related developments.
The Tugwi-Mukosi Dam, located in Masvingo province, holds immense promise for Zimbabwe’s socio-economic development.
Its completion is expected to transform agriculture in the region through the irrigation of approximately 25000 hectares of land in the southeast Lowveld.
This expansion will facilitate large-scale cultivation of both food and cash crops, improving food security and creating employment opportunities for thousands of local farmers.
Beyond its agricultural impact, the dam will contribute to Zimbabwe’s energy infrastructure with a planned hydroelectric power generation capacity of between 6 and 15 megawatts.
This addition to the national grid will support rural electrification and stimulate economic activity across the region, promoting growth and innovation.
Communities near the dam will also gain enhanced access to domestic water supply for household uses such as bathing, laundry, and gardening.
This improved access is expected to elevate hygiene standards and reduce the daily burden of collecting water from distant sources, positively affecting overall quality of life.
The dam’s reservoir will serve as a hub for fisheries and livestock production, providing alternative income sources and food security improvements for local populations.
In addition, the scenic beauty of the Tugwi-Mukosi area presents vast potential for tourism development.
Government envisions a thriving tourism sector offering activities such as sightseeing, fishing, and boating, which would generate employment and stimulate local economies.
Government's commitment to accelerating the Tugwi-Mukosi project is seen as a strategic move to foster sustainable development.
By fast-tracking this initiative, authorities aim to transform the region into a vital economic hub that benefits the entire nation.
