Staff Reporter

The construction of Kunzvi Dam is currently 56% complete, with significant progress being made on the project.

In an interview, Resident Engineer, Davison Madondo,highlighted the advancements, stating that the project is moving forward at full speed despite a few challenges.

“We are in full swing. Although we faced some constraints, we continue to make progress, with backfilling and concrete works currently in progress,” Madondo said.

The Kunzvi Dam project is being funded by the Government through the Ministry of Finance, and ZINWA is responsible for overseeing the construction. Madondo explained that the dam will significantly improve the water supply for Harare and surrounding communities, such as Chikwaka.

"The dam will provide safe and clean water to Harare and local communities. Harare will no longer have to rely on Lake Chivero only, a water source that has been heavily impacted by industrial and sewage pollution. Local schools will also benefit from the clean and safe water provided by Kunzvi Dam.

Resident Engineer, John Tangai said the purification process for the water will be much cheaper and more efficient since the water has fewer impurities.

“Water treatment will be lighter, and the water will be safer and cleaner. Locals will also benefit, as there will be 500 hectares available for irrigation, supporting gardening and fishery activities,” said Tangai.

Moreover, the dam will also bring infrastructural development, with subsidiary dams and roads being constructed.

Tangai noted that local communities would benefit, not only from the improved water supply but also, through employment opportunities and skill transfers.

"We are employing locals, and some of our workers are Chinese. They teach locals how to operate technologically advanced machinery, especially in the workshop,” he explained.

As the Kunzvi Dam nears completion, it is expected to have a long-term positive impact on the water supply, local agriculture, and the overall development of the area.