Bikita villagers rejoice as piped water scheme arrives

Ivan Zhakata in BIKITA

Residents of Bikita’s Village 15, Ward 25, are rejoicing after they received a piped water scheme.
The villagers had been walking 8 kilometers daily to the Musaizi River to fetch water during the past 44 years.

A partnership between the Government and UNICEF, funded by the United Nations’ Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF), brought this life-changing project to fruition.

The scheme has not only provided a much-needed resource but has also transformed the lives of the community.

Villagers have expressed immense gratitude to the Government for bringing water closer to their homes.

With access to clean, running water, they have been able to establish gardens, and grow crops like cabbages and tomatoes, which they are selling to supplement their income.

“We used to face severe water shortages in this area,” said a resient, Mr Francis Manyanga.

“The piped water scheme has been a lifesaver. We no longer have to walk long distances, and our children can now fetch water safely.”

Another resident, Ms Chipo Goko echoed the same sentiments and said, “Our lives have improved significantly. We used to struggle with carrying heavy buckets of water.

“Now, we have it right at our doorstep. Our children can fetch water without fear of encountering wild animals.”

Village 15 chairperson Mr Joseph Muchara expressed his joy at finally having access to piped water.

“We have not had this luxury since independence,” he said. “It is a dream come true.”

Ward 25 councillor Winfilda Nedombwe added, “We are grateful for this development, but we hope that a dam can be constructed in the future to further address our ward’s water challenges.”