Relief for Insiza villagers as water situation improves

Taboka Tshuma –Bulawayo Bureau

THE Gankabezi community in Insiza District, Matabeleland South Province, is experiencing significant improvements in access to clean water and road infrastructure, thanks to collaborative efforts between JR Goddard Contracting Company and local authorities.

The drilling of a new solar-powered borehole and the forthcoming rehabilitation of the Bhopoma Dam are expected to bring much-needed relief to both villagers and livestock farmers, who have long struggled with water shortages.

Previously, residents had to walk long distances to access clean water, a burden that particularly affected women and children.

Speaking about the development, Ward 1 Councillor Peter Mwaza said the new borehole at the business centre has transformed daily life for the community.

“The situation had become increasingly desperate, as the lack of accessible water not only threatened the health of the community but also the livelihoods of local farmers.

“The new borehole has alleviated these challenges, and the impending rehabilitation of the Mzingwane Dam has sparked hope among villagers,” he said.

Cllr Mwaza added that this project will restore a reliable water source, reducing the need for long-distance travel.

Insiza Rural District Council’s chief executive officer, Mr Shepard Tshuma, said the rehabilitation of the dam is crucial for livestock farmers, who have suffered due to prolonged dry spells.

“Livestock farmers in the area are expected to benefit greatly from the dam’s rehabilitation, as animals previously had to travel long distances in search of water, particularly during the dry season. This initiative will help safeguard livelihoods and improve agricultural productivity,” he said.

The rehabilitation of key infrastructure is part of broader national efforts under the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1) and Vision 2030 to improve rural livelihoods, enhance climate resilience, and boost agricultural production.

The Government, alongside private sector partners like JR Goddard Contracting Company, has been investing in water conservation projects across the region.

Similar interventions have been rolled out in other drought-affected districts, such as Gwanda and Beitbridge, as the Second Republic seeks to mitigate the impact of climate change on rural communities.