Staff Reporter
The Government of Zimbabwe has embarked on a borehole drilling initiative in partnership with the People’s Republic of China.
Speaking at the launch of this transformative initiative in Mahusekwa, Mashonaland East yesterday, Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Hon. Daniel Garwe, lauded the collaborative effort between Zimbabwe and China underscoring its critical importance for the nation.
“As we all know, a significant number of people were affected by Cyclone Idai and still lack safe drinking water. The problem was exacerbated by El Niño-induced drought, as a result our water sources have dried up, leaving both people and livestock in dire need. The lack of adequate water supply has not only impacted daily living conditions but has also hindered agricultural productivity and economic stability,” Minister stated.
In addition Minister Garwe emphasized the critical role of traditional leaders in the project, highlighting their importance in ensuring its success and sustainability.
“Chiefs will be included in the process of drilling these boreholes to embrace the Zunderamambo concept, ensuring the vision of clean water for all becomes a reality, by involving chiefs and other local leaders, we are not only respecting our cultural heritage but also leveraging their deep understanding of local needs and challenges. This ensures that the project is tailored to the specific requirements of each community, making it more effective and sustainable,” he said.
Chuanxiu Chang one of the Chinese partners highlighted how they plan to distribute the boreholes.
“Three hundred boreholes will be drilled across the country under the auspices of a disaster relief initiative; the plan allocates 100 boreholes to Manicaland Province, 68 to Masvingo, 66 to Mashonaland East, and the remaining 66 to the Midlands Province.
Moreover, this program was necessitated by an international appeal made by President Emmerson Mnangagwa following the declaration of a national state of disaster in line with the Civil Protection Act Chapter 10:06. The China-Aid program is indeed a veritable oasis in the desert of Zimbabwe’s water woes, aiming to quench the thirst of communities that have long been parched by cruel droughts.
