Online Reporter
Sikhumbuzo Moyo, Senior Reporter
PRESIDENTIAL Advisor Dr Paul Tungwarara yesterday commissioned the Cowdray Park Presidential Borehole Scheme in Bulawayo, with opposition and ruling party representatives sharing a platform and calling for development initiatives to rise above political differences.
The project, which consists of a borehole, two 5 000-litre water storage tanks and a one-hectare fenced nutrition garden, is expected to improve access to clean water while enhancing food security for residents of the sprawling high-density suburb.
The commissioning ceremony drew hundreds of residents and was attended by several dignitaries, including Bulawayo Deputy Mayor Councillor Edwin Ndlovu, Zanu-PF Bulawayo provincial chairman Cde Jabulani Sibanda and community leaders.
Addressing the gathering, Clr Ndlovu, who represented Bulawayo Mayor David Coltart, praised President Mnangagwa for supporting inclusive development through the Presidential Borehole Scheme, saying the initiative reflected the Government’s commitment to ensuring that no community is left behind.
He said development should unite communities regardless of political affiliation and urged leaders to focus on improving people’s lives.
“We are grateful to His Excellency, the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, for bringing development to the country and for ensuring that all citizens remain united irrespective of political affiliation.
“Politics should be about the contestation of ideas. Political parties should present programmes and initiatives that improve the lives of citizens. It should not be about power for its own sake, but about serving the people,” said Clr Ndlovu.
He described the Cowdray Park project as tangible evidence of Government’s commitment to improving livelihoods and thanked President Mnangagwa for deploying Dr Tungwarara to oversee the programme. “All these initiatives come in handy and speak directly to the President’s guiding philosophy that no one and no place should be left behind.
“We ask Dr Tungwarara to convey our message to the President on behalf of the people of Bulawayo. We are deeply grateful for the care and attention that he continues to show our city and its residents,” he said.
Earlier, Prevail Group public relations executive Ms Tariro Dondo outlined the technical features of the project, explaining that the system is powered by solar energy.
“The borehole scheme has two 5 000-litre tanks supplying water to the community, while the nutrition garden will utilise the same water source. The solar panels are located about 300 metres from the tank site and are capable of providing power even during periods of limited sunlight,” she said.
Dr Tungwarara, who opted not to read a prepared speech, said the day belonged to the people of Cowdray Park and the broader community.
He, however, encouraged residents to support Constitutional Amendment No. 3 Bill (CAB3).
“Let us rally behind CAB3, even though it’s a done deal, zvaenda izvi,” said Dr Tungwarara.
The Presidential Borehole Scheme is part of the Second Republic’s broader programme to improve access to clean and safe water while strengthening household nutrition through community gardens.
Since its launch, the initiative has seen boreholes and nutrition gardens established in communities across the country, particularly in areas facing water challenges.
The Cowdray Park project is expected to benefit hundreds of households through improved access to water for domestic use and agricultural production, further supporting Government efforts to improve livelihoods and strengthen food security.
