Online Reporter
Taboka Tshuma, Sunday News Reporter
THE Gankabezi community in Insiza District, Matabeleland South Province is experiencing major improvements in access to clean water and road infrastructure, thanks to complementary efforts by JR Goddard Contracting Company, in collaboration with local authorities.
The drilling of a new solar-powered borehole and the impending rehabilitation of the Mzingwane (Bhopoma) Dam are expected to bring much-needed relief to both villagers and livestock farmers, who have long struggled with water shortages.
Previously, residents had to walk long distances to access clean water, a burden that fell particularly hard on women and children.
Speaking on the development, Ward One Councillor Peter Mwaza said the new borehole at the business centre has
transformed daily life for the community.
“The situation had become increasingly desperate as the lack of accessible water not only threatened the health of the community, but also the livelihoods of local farmers. The new borehole has alleviated these challenges and the impending rehabilitation of the Mzingwane Dam has ignited hope among villagers,” he said.
Clr Mwaza said this project will restore a reliable water source, reducing the need for long-distance travel.
Insiza Rural District Council’s chief executive officer, Mr Shepard Tshuma said the rehabilitation of the dam is important for livestock farmers who have suffered due to prolonged dry spells.
“Livestock farmers in the area are expected to benefit greatly from the dam’s rehabilitation, as animals previously had to travel long distances in search of water, particularly during the dry season. This initiative will help safeguard livelihoods and improve agricultural productivity,” he said.
Matabeleland South is a drought-prone province, with communities relying heavily on boreholes, dams and small irrigation projects for water.
The rehabilitation of key infrastructure is part of wider national efforts under the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1) and Vision 2030 to improve rural livelihoods, enhance climate resilience and boost agricultural production.
The Government, alongside private sector players like JR Goddard Contracting Company, has been investing in water conservation projects across the region. Similar interventions have been rolled out in other drought-affected districts, such as Gwanda and Beitbridge, as the Second Republic seeks to mitigate the impact of climate change on rural communities.
Colletta Dube