Online Reporter
Bulawayo Bureau
SIGNIFICANT progress has been made on the Lake Gwayi-Shangani project, where the main dam wall is now 79 percent complete, with the contractor having switched to 24-hour shifts to meet the December deadline.
The multi-million-dollar project, a key component of the National Matabeleland Zambezi Water Project (NMZWP), has gained momentum following consistent funding disbursements from Treasury.
The Government has been releasing US$5 million monthly since August last year, which has accelerated construction of this massive water infrastructure.
Speaking during a tour of Lake Gwayi-Shangani by the Special Adviser to the President Responsible for Monitoring the Implementation of Government Projects, Dr Jorum Gumbo, on Thursday, Zimbabwe National Water Authority (ZINWA) resident engineer for the project Paul Dengu expressed confidence in meeting the December target.
“We are 79 percent complete, and our target is to finish this by December. We have introduced 24-hour shifts, and we believe we can meet our target,” he said.
“We have been receiving funding from the Ministry of Finance — US$5 million monthly since August last year.
“We hope to continue receiving this funding so that we can work towards completing the project.
“Although our work has expanded somewhat, we will need additional funding, possibly up to US$8 million, to complete all necessary activities before impounding the water in the dam,” said Eng Dengu.
Other components of the project are also progressing well.
The pipeline and pump station number three are currently 46 percent complete, while the power station is at 75 percent.
The remaining work involves the installation of electromechanical equipment, which is expected to commence next year and be completed in 2027.
Furthermore, ZINWA has moved onto the site to begin construction of a water treatment plant in Cowdray Park.
“We have started work on the treatment plant in Cowdray Park. We established the site in May and are currently putting up boundaries and ensuring the site’s security — covering the contractor’s site and our pump station site,” added Eng Dengu.
The water treatment plant will process more than 100 megalitres per day and will be a critical component in delivering clean water to Bulawayo residents.
The tour by Dr Gumbo was aimed at assessing progress and ensure the project remains on track to deliver its transformative benefits to Matabeleland North province and beyond.
