Minister to commission upgraded Deka pipeline

Rutendo Nyeve, Sunday News Reporter

THE Minister of Energy and Power Development, Edgar Moyo, is tomorrow expected to preside over the commissioning of the Deka Upgrade Project which saw the construction of a US$48,1 million 42km pipeline which will supply water to Hwange Power Station and community around the Zambezi River.

The 962mm pipeline runs parallel to the existing one used by Zesa for water supply to the power station and Hwange community.

The Deka Pipeline will increase water supply to the power station from the current 3 500 cubic metres to 6 000 cubic metres per hour.

Funded by Exim Bank of India, the project scope involved the construction of a 42km pipeline from Deka on the Zambezi River, the upgrading of the Zimbabwe National Water Authority (Zinwa) pump station, and the creation of three outlets along the way to supply communities in Makwa, Mashala and Chachachunda with potable water.
More than 300 jobs were created for locals.

Zesa General Manager Stakeholder Relations Dr George Manyaya confirmed the commissioning set for tomorrow at Zimbali in Hwange District.

“The Minister of Energy and Power Development Edgar Moyo will commission the Deka upgradation project on Monday 5 August (tomorrow) at Zimbali in Hwange District. The commissioning means that the completed project is now being handed over to the Zimbabwe Power Company.

“The second 42km water pipeline connecting Hwange Power Station to the Deka High Lift Pump Station on the Zambezi River was completed last year and is ensuring the extended Hwange Power Station has adequate water for boilers and cooling, with an extra supply for the local Deka community,” said Dr Manyaya.

The Indian Ambassador to Zimbabwe, His Excellency Mr Vijay Khanduja is also expected to grace the occasion.
The project started on 1 October 2021, with President Mnangagwa officiating at the groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of the pipeline in March 2022.

Communities along the pipeline’s way from Zambezi River are already benefiting from the water, with horticulture projects topping the priorities of many families.

Institutions such as Mashala Primary and Mwemba Clinic are also benefiting from the water. The completion of the project confirms President Mnangagwa’s declaration that under the Second Republic, projects would be started and completed on time. -@nyeve14