adminConrad Mupesa in Mhangura
VILLAGERS in Mhangura have called for improved access to clean water to avert a looming health hazard as some of them are sharing unprotected drinking water with animals. The most affected are villagers in Wards 5 and 6 in Mhangura Constituency.
They blame Makonde Rural District Council, District Development Fund (DDF) and their political representatives for failing to address the challenges.
Villagers in Gudubu bemoaned the lack of borehole water at a secondary school since its construction in the 90s.
Gudubu Secondary School development committee treasurer Mrs Bester Negonde said the unavailability of water at the school had affected learning at the institution. This has resulted in high teacher turnover as they transfer to better schools. “Staff members here walk nearly 4 kilometres to access water. This has affected our ability to attract and retain qualified teachers as they move to better schools,” she said.
Senator for Makonde Honourable Prisca Mupfumira last year had a borehole sunk at the school, but no pipes were installed. People in the area called for other well-wishers to chip in so that they can have clean water.
A 60-year-old Mrs Agnes Masboy from Broadlands Farm, some 12km northeast of Mhangura, has had the plight of sharing water with animals. “We have this situation since 2001 and the responsible authorities have not acted on the matter. The unhealthy situation poses a threat to our health and a farm worker nearby survived a cholera attack in 2008,” she said. Mr Ndiwasedye Muloba said they have been using open and unprotected wells for water supplies which they also share with domestic animals.
“The situation is bad especially during the rainy season when wells are full and animals have easy access. Dogs, goats and cows even mess the water, but there is nothing we can do, but to endure the situation. We are surviving through God’s grace,” he said. The villagers said they have approached local councillor Mr Davet Muzvidzwa and National Assembly member Dr Douglas Mombeshora, but nothing has been done. Ward 5 villagers in Kapiri, Kapfundi, Slotter, Mtala and Zindafuli also face the same challenge as there are few boreholes in their area, forcing them to walk long distances to fetch water. Kapfundi headman, Mr Rodrick Musiiwa bemoaned the situation and said councillors and legislators should initiate development in their areas.
Online Reporter