Online Reporter
Vusumuzi Dube, Deputy Radar Editor
The launch of the Presidential Borehole Scheme in Cowdray Park has been hailed as a significant step towards addressing Bulawayo’s long-standing water challenges, with city leaders describing the initiative as a practical intervention that will bring relief to thousands of residents.
Speaking during the launch of the programme on Saturday, Ward 26 Councillor and Chairperson of the Finance and Development Committee, Mpumelelo Moyo, welcomed the initiative, saying it comes at a critical time when the city continues to grapple with persistent water shortages.
He said water security remains one of the most pressing issues affecting households, businesses and institutions across Bulawayo.
“Water is life. No city can function effectively without reliable access to water. Families require water for daily living, hospitals require water to save lives, and industries require water for productivity and economic growth,” said Cllr Moyo.
Bulawayo has for years faced recurring water shortages due to a combination of factors, including climate change, recurrent droughts, population growth, industrial expansion and increasing pressure on ageing infrastructure. Water-shedding schedules have become a regular feature of life in the city, affecting residents and key economic sectors.
Cllr Moyo said every practical intervention aimed at easing the burden on residents deserved support, adding that the Presidential Borehole Scheme had already demonstrated its value in other parts of the country.
“It is therefore with appreciation that we welcome the Presidential Borehole Scheme under the leadership of Dr Paul Tungwarara, working under the guidance and vision of His Excellency President Cde Dr Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa,” he said.
“We have observed this programme being implemented in other parts of the country, bringing relief to communities facing similar challenges, and we are grateful that this important initiative has now come to Bulawayo.”
He commended President Mnangagwa for prioritising programmes aimed at improving the livelihoods of ordinary citizens and also praised Dr Tungwarara for spearheading the initiative.
The councillor stressed the importance of cooperation between central Government, local authorities and communities in delivering meaningful development.
“As the City of Bulawayo, we believe development succeeds when there is cooperation between central government, local authorities, communities and all stakeholders regardless of political affiliation. Residents expect leadership that prioritises service delivery and practical solutions,” he said.
Cllr Moyo noted that while the borehole programme would provide immediate relief to many communities, long-term solutions remained necessary to permanently address the city’s water woes.
He expressed optimism that major infrastructure projects such as the Gwayi-Shangani Dam and its associated pipeline network would eventually provide a lasting solution to Bulawayo’s water supply challenges while supporting economic growth across the region.
The councillor also commended engineers, technical teams, council staff and other stakeholders involved in implementing the programme, saying sustainable development could only be achieved through professionalism, accountability and proper planning.
He urged residents to safeguard public infrastructure and use water responsibly to ensure the sustainability of the initiative.
“Together, through unity of purpose, cooperation and practical action, we can build a stronger, more resilient and prosperous Bulawayo,” said Cllr Moyo.
The Presidential Borehole Scheme is expected to enhance access to water in several communities across the city, complementing existing efforts to improve service delivery while broader water infrastructure projects continue to be pursued.
