Minister fosters development in Gokwe-Kana Constituency

THE El Nino-induced drought has wreaked havoc in various parts of Zimbabwe, causing severe water shortages, especially in areas like Gokwe, which are semi-arid.

The situation has forced communities to resort to unsafe water sources, with some even sharing water points with wildlife, escalating the risk of health hazards and human-wildlife conflict.

However, the drought-stricken Gokwe-Kana Constituency is receiving much-needed relief through the efforts of Midlands Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister, Owen Ncube, who is also the legislator for the area.

Minister Ncube has been pushing for the drilling of boreholes under the Presidential Borehole Scheme in his area and the boreholes are all solar-powered.

He has also spearheaded the construction of clinics, classroom blocks and bridges as part of efforts to improve the locals livelihoods.

The solarised boreholes are not only supplying clean drinking water but are also supporting community farming projects thereby enhancing nutrition and providing food security for many households.

During a recent visit to the constituency to inspect ongoing projects, Minister Ncube took the opportunity to hand over building materials for clinics and schools in his area.

At the handover ceremony, the locals expressed their gratitude for Minister Ncube’s dedication to the community’s welfare.

“I want to thank Cde Ncube for facilitating the Presidential Borehole Drilling Scheme in the area as it has brought us clean drinking water. Our constituency is near Binga where there is wildlife and we have been sharing water points with wild animals thereby risking our lives,” said Mrs Patricia Ncube.

Ward 3 Councillor, Stanley Dube, also commended the drilling of boreholes which he said had eased the burden on women who used to walk long distances to fetch water.

“Our women can now easily access water and also engage in gardening, which improves nutrition. We thank our hard-working legislator for his efforts,” he said.

Minister Ncube said the development projects being implemented were in line with President Mnangagwa’s Vision 2030, which focuses on inclusive growth that leaves no one and no place behind.

He urged farmers to begin preparing for the upcoming summer season while cautioning against the illegal sale of agricultural inputs.