Solar-powered borehole initiative expands to Kambuzuma Section 5

Obey Musiwa

Herald Reporter

Residents of Kambuzuma Section 5 are celebrating a breakthrough in their long struggle with water shortages after the installation of solar panels to power a community borehole, ensuring a steady supply of clean water even during electricity outages.

For years, unreliable municipal water supplies had forced families to walk long distances in search of safe drinking water, which weighed heavily on the elderly, children, and people living with disabilities.

The new solar-powered system marks a turning point, offering both sustainability and dignity to a community that has endured persistent hardship.

Speaking at the recent handover, Harare Central Constituency MP Hon Lovemore Jimi, who donated the solar system, said access to clean water is a basic right and a foundation for community health.

“Water is life, and without it, development stalls. This project is about restoring dignity and ensuring every household can thrive,” he said.

Hon Jimu emphasised that solar energy provides a sustainable solution to chronic service delivery gaps.

“Electricity outages should never mean water shortages. By harnessing the sun, we guarantee resilience for the community towards national development,” he said.

He emphasised that community-driven initiatives are vital in addressing local challenges.

“Solutions must come from within communities, with support that empowers them. This borehole is not charity, it is a partnership that will sustain the relationship between the Government and its citizens,” he said.

Hon Jimu said the project reduces daily burdens and improves hygiene standards.

“This borehole ensures families can focus on education, work, and health,” he said.

One of the beneficiaries, Kambuzuma resident, Ms Evelyn Marowa, said the project restored hope, proving that collective action can bring lasting change.

“Our children are no longer at risk of getting ill due to drinking unsafe water we used to fetch from open wells. The borehole now doubles as a safe gathering point, strengthening social bonds,” she said.