Gwayi-Tshangani hydropower station takes shape

Rutendo Nyeve, Sunday News Reporter

THE construction of the 10-megawatt Gwayi-Shangani mini hydropower station, which commenced early this year following a Government disbursement of US$8,6 million is now over 40 percent complete.

The project is expected to be completed within the next seven months. The US$45 million hydropower station forms part of the Lake Gwayi-Tshangani project and aligns with the Government’s commitment to generate clean energy at major dam sites.

It is part of a broader initiative to transition towards environmentally friendly energy investments for sustainable development.
Speaking at a recent fact-finding visit by the Joint Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Local Government, Public Works and National Housing, Sustainable Development Goals as well as Bulawayo councillors, Engineer Paul Dengu, resident engineer of the Zimbabwe National Water Authority (Zinwa) said there was progress on the construction of the power station.

He explained that after receiving US$8.6 million of the US$44 million allocated by the Government for the Gwayi-Tshangani project this year, construction of the power station commenced immediately.

“The construction of the dam wall necessitates substantial funding, as our method of construction requires continuity to ensure the wall’s integrity. Thus, we redirected the US$8,6 million to progress the power station, which is currently 42 percent complete,” said Eng Dengu.

He highlighted that the station features two turbines, each generating five megawatts, and confirmed that excavation and foundation work were complete. The team is now awaiting the importation of hydro-electric turbines for installation.
Progress on the penstock and valve installations along the pipeline intended to manage water inflow is also advancing well.

“Currently, we are stabilizsouse. The total cost for this power station will be US$45 million. We are focusing on finalising the pipeline that connects to the power station,” added Eng Dengu.

Once the dam and pipeline construction to Bulawayo is finalised, 10 megawatts will be required to pump water to the city.Acting Chairperson of the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee, Cde Albert Nyakuyedzwa expressed appreciation to President Mnangagwa’s initiative in launching significant projects, including the Lake Gwayi-Tshangani project, which is now over 70 percent complete.

“This project is monumental, funded entirely by the Government despite external sanctions limiting external support. The President’s philosophy — nyika inovakwa nevene vayo —emphasises using local resources for national development,” said Cde Nyakuyedzwa.

“Our visit aims to assess progress and ensure that the people of Bulawayo receive a permanent solution to their water challenges. We will lobby the Ministry of Finance for additional funding to expedite this project’s completion.”

Bulawayo Deputy Mayor Edwin Ndlovu thanked the Government while calling for the release of more funds to finalise the project.

“On behalf of the City of Bulawayo, we acknowledge the substantial progress made at Lake Gwayi-Tshangani and thank the Central Government for their efforts. We also appreciate Parliament’s support and request their assistance in urging the Finance Minister to allocate more resources to complete the dam which will address our ongoing water challenges.”

Lake Gwayi-Tshangani is anticipated to be a transformative project for Bulawayo’s water supply and offer significant irrigation benefits in Matabeleland North Province and beyond.