Online Reporter
Sukulwenkosi Dube- Matutu, Zimpapers Reporter
THE completion of Tuli Manyange Dam in Gwanda District requires an additional US$87 million, with authorities stating the project holds the key to unlocking vast agricultural and mining opportunities in Matabeleland South Province.
The multi-million-dollar initiative, which has been on the agenda since the 1960s, was revived under the Second Republic as part of the Government’s drive to establish new water bodies and bolster resilience against climate change.
Construction had reached 25 percent before coming to a halt in 2022 due to funding constraints.
Briefing members of the Joint Operations Command (JOC) and heads of Government departments ahead of a visit by Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, a representative from the Zimbabwe National Water Authority (Zinwa) said the contractor left the site when funds were exhausted.
“Construction stalled in 2022 due to funding challenges, causing the project to come to a standstill. If funding is availed, the dam can be completed within 24 months,” said the official.
The dam is designed to hold 33 to 35 million cubic metres of water and will be complemented by a smaller back-up dam, Tuli Moswa, located upstream.
Once complete, Tuli Manyange will irrigate 1 600 hectares of land and supply water to Gwanda Town, nearby irrigation schemes, and the emerging Gwanda Lithium Mine, which is expected to become a key economic player in the province.
During his recent visit, Vice President Chiwenga said the Government had prioritised the project under its infrastructure-led economic growth strategy, recognising its importance in supporting both agricultural and mining productivity.
He said Tuli Manyange Dam will not only provide water for irrigation but also ensure a reliable supply to Gwanda Town and surrounding areas. The Vice-President added the project will help transform Matabeleland South into a major contributor to the nation’s agricultural output.
He said the dam’s completion would be fast-tracked under the Government’s thrust to modernise agriculture and reduce dependence on rain-fed farming.
Chief Kgwatalala of Gwanda South welcomed the renewed focus on the project, saying communities have long awaited its completion.
“A lot of water is being lost every year as it flows along the Tuli River into Botswana. If harvested, this water can change lives here by improving food security and livelihoods,” he said.
The dam, which has a catchment area of 5 770 square kilometres, is expected to supply water to several irrigation and business centres including Vela, Guyu, Ntalale, Chelesa, Sizhubane Barracks, Manama Mission, Sebasa and Mankonkoni.
Once operational, Tuli Manyange will also support fisheries and other agro-based enterprises, bringing lasting relief to a province often characterised by low rainfall and recurrent droughts.
The project is viewed as one of the Second Republic’s flagship water infrastructure initiatives, with the potential to drive inclusive rural development, create employment, and strengthen climate resilience.
Bongani Ndlovu