Online Reporter
Peter Matika, [email protected]
FINANCE, Economic Development and Investment Promotion Minister, Professor Mthuli Ncube yesterday made a generous donation of three solar-powered boreholes to two Zimbabwe National Army regiments in Bulawayo.
Prof Ncube, through the Ministerial Borehole Drilling Programme, donated two boreholes to Imbizo Barracks on the outskirts of Bulawayo and one to the 1 Infantry Brigade.
The Ministerial Borehole Drilling Programme in Zimbabwe is a government-led initiative aimed at drilling boreholes as part of larger water and sanitation programmes. The initiative seeks to improve access to clean water for rural communities, schools, and other areas facing water scarcity.
The Minister of State for Bulawayo Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Cde Judith Ncube, and the Minister of Matabeleland North Province, Cde Richard Moyo, who was represented, were among the delegates to witness the momentous event.
Other notable guests included traditional chiefs, service chiefs, and members of the business community.
“The boreholes will serve as vital sources of drinking water for all of us at Headquarters Bulawayo District and Headquarters 1 Infantry Brigade. This is not just about the physical infrastructure we are inaugurating; it is about transforming lives and nurturing the well-being of our cantonment areas,” said Prof Ncube.
He stressed that water is fundamental to existence and access to safe drinking water is a basic human right. Prof Ncube highlighted that clean water is crucial for preventing water-borne diseases, which claim the lives of millions each year, particularly among vulnerable populations such as children and the elderly. Contaminated water sources can lead to serious illnesses such as cholera, dysentery, and typhoid.
“We are taking a significant step towards safeguarding the health of our families by having these boreholes here at Headquarters Bulawayo District and Headquarters 1 Infantry Brigade. Clean water will not only reduce incidents of these diseases but will also empower individuals to lead healthier lives, resulting in fewer hospital visits and less strain on our healthcare systems,” said Prof Ncube.
He noted that health improvement would create a more vibrant and productive community where people can thrive and pursue their goals without the constant worry of illness caused by unsafe drinking water. “The journey to this moment has not been without its challenges, but the spirit of collaboration and unity has prevailed. These boreholes symbolise more than just access to water; they are a gateway to improved health, dedication to duty, and greater economic opportunities. With this new infrastructure, time and energy can now be redirected towards work, allowing for a brighter and more prosperous future,” said Prof Ncube.
He urged military personnel to safeguard the infrastructure for future generations and to advocate for proper maintenance and community ownership.
Prof Ncube also donated one tonne of rice to the regiment, as well as sports kits.
“I was also quite delighted to realise that Headquarters Bulawayo District was involved in several sporting activities, despite the numerous challenges they were facing. I then took it upon myself to extend a generous donation to ease their challenges,” he said.
Prof Ncube stressed the importance of sports in maintaining good health.
“Allow me to assert that this noble gesture that I have just extended to you also aligns perfectly with Vision 2030 and the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1), which places strong emphasis on improving infrastructure and service delivery across all sectors, including the Defence Forces.
“Indeed, this investment speaks to the cross-cutting goal of building a resilient and sustainable military force that is logistically self-sufficient and responsive to the changing needs of our times,” he said.
