Online Reporter
Lovemore Kadzura
Post Reporter
CHINA today officially handed over 300 boreholes drilled in areas affected by Cyclone Idai in 2019, benefiting over 75,000 people across four provinces.
Speaking at the handover ceremony at Bumba Village in Chimanimani District, Local Government and Public Works Minister Daniel Garwe said the boreholes will improve water, sanitation and hygiene in disaster-hit communities.
“This project was conceived in response to the devastating impacts of Tropical Cyclone Idai in 2019, which left many communities without access to safe and reliable water. Following the declaration of State of Disaster by President Emmerson Mnangagwa an international appeal was made. In true solidarity and friendship, the People’s Republic of China responded generously through the provision of 300 boreholes,” said Minister Garwe.
The boreholes were distributed across four provinces: Manicaland received 100, Masvingo 68, Mashonaland East 66 and Midlands 66.
Minister Garwe said the milestone contributes to National Development Strategy 2 and Vision 2030, which seeks to transform Zimbabwe into an upper middle income economy.
Chinese Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Mr Zhou Ding said the project targets drought-stricken areas and will strengthen agricultural resilience.
“As Zimbabwe’s all-weather friend China swiftly responded to President Mnangagwa’s call by rolling out the 300 boreholes in drought stricken areas of Mashonaland East, Manicaland, Masvingo, and Midlands to help local people cope with the acute water shortages,” Ambassador Ding.
He said the boreholes supply safe water for daily use and farming, help reduce waterborne diseases, and have empowered women and children by freeing up time for schooling and other work.
“This project has brought clean water to more than 75,000 residents across 300 villages, 21 Districts and four provinces. With reliable water access, crop farming, livestock rearing, poultry raising and vegetable cultivation have all thrived in local communities,” said Ambassador Ding.
The ceremony was attended by Deputy Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Omupile Marupi, Chief Mutambara and community members.
