Online Reporter
Patrick Chitumba
MORE than 800 villagers in Mberengwa District are now benefitting from the Chingoma piped water scheme, following a successful collaborative project between the Finnish Evangelical Lutheran Mission (FELM) and the Government of Zimbabwe.
The water will serve both agricultural and domestic needs.
Located in the Gwai area of Mberengwa, the initiative forms part of the Second Republic’s broader drive to deliver inclusive development and uplift marginalised rural communities through strategic public-private partnerships.
As Zimbabwe works towards its Vision 2030 goals, partnerships like the one between the Government and FELM continue to deliver tangible change — bringing dignity, improved health, and economic opportunity to communities that were once left behind.
Already, the project has enabled villagers to launch income-generating agricultural ventures, boosting household food security and livelihoods.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Finland’s Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Ms Saana Halinen, praised the collaboration between the Finnish Mission and the Zimbabwean Government.
“Bringing water closer to people’s homes is not only about convenience — it reflects a shared commitment to improving public health, empowering rural communities, and enhancing quality of life,” she said.
Ambassador Halinen added that Finland is proud to be part of efforts to alleviate hunger and transform marginalised areas like Mberengwa.
Mberengwa District Development Co-ordinator, Mr Vafios Hlabati, described the water scheme as a key driver of socio-economic development in the region.
“This project not only improves access to clean drinking water but also supports sustainable agriculture and livestock rearing. The solar-powered water system is an example of environmentally conscious development that aligns with our national vision for rural transformation,” he said.
Mr Hlabati said that the Chingoma piped water scheme underscores the Second Republic’s commitment to ensuring no one is left behind in the national development agenda.
“The initiative is a clear reflection of the Government’s inclusive development strategy, particularly in areas previously overlooked in terms of infrastructure and service delivery,” he said.
Beneficiaries, many of whom previously walked long distances to fetch potable water, expressed joy and gratitude for the initiative.
“The water I now access from the Chingoma scheme has changed my life. I’ve started irrigating maize and tomatoes, and from the proceeds, I’ve been able to pay school fees and buy uniforms for my children,” said Mrs Pepukai Charity.
Ms Edna Moyo also commended the Second Republic for enabling such life-changing investments in their district.
“We want to thank our leadership, especially President Mnangagwa, for allowing organisations like FELM to invest in transformative programmes in marginalised communities like ours. This investment came at the right time, when we were struggling with long distances to access clean water,” she said.
