Water flows, hope rises in Kwekwe villages

FOR families in Zimende and Khatshana villages under Chief Malisa in Kwekwe District, the opening of a new solar-powered community borehole has brought a welcome dose of relief, dignity and hope.

The US$12 000 facility, handed over by Delta Corporation Limited, is expected to benefit about 90 homesteads, with approximately 45 households from each village set to enjoy improved access to a reliable and sustainable water supply.

Delta Corporation chief executive officer Mathlogonolo Valela officially handed over the facility at a ceremony attended by about 120 people, including community members, traditional leaders and other stakeholders.

The development represents a significant investment in the wellbeing of the two communities, where access to dependable water is essential for household needs, hygiene and livelihoods.

In his speech, a copy of which is in possession of Zimpapers, Mr Valela said water was at the heart of healthy and thriving communities.

“Water is not simply a basic service; it is an essential foundation for health, dignity and community development. Through this project, we are helping to provide a more reliable water supply while reducing the burden placed on families when water is difficult to access,” he said.

Mr Valela said Delta’s commitment to the communities in which it operates extended beyond business, with the company seeking to support practical initiatives that create lasting benefits.

“At Delta Corporation, we believe that our long-term success is closely connected to the wellbeing of the communities in which we operate. This borehole reflects our commitment to investing in practical, sustainable initiatives that respond to genuine community needs and create lasting value,” he said.

The borehole’s solar-powered system is one of its major features.

By harnessing solar energy, the facility reduces dependence on conventional electricity while providing an environmentally responsible water solution. The technology is also expected to improve operational reliability and help contain long-term running costs.

For the beneficiary communities, the project comes as a practical response to a basic need while also promoting the use of renewable energy.

Mr Valela said the initiative was part of Delta’s wider commitment to water stewardship and sustainable community development, with the company continuing to support programmes aimed at improving access to essential services and strengthening community resilience.

However, he emphasised that the long-term success of the project would depend on the communities themselves.

Mr Valela urged residents to take ownership of the infrastructure, protect it from damage, maintain the surrounding environment and ensure that the facility remained accessible and beneficial to everyone.

“The handover does not mark the end of this project. It marks the beginning of community ownership and stewardship. Its lasting impact will depend on how well the infrastructure is protected, maintained and equitably used,” he said.

Mr Valela also expressed appreciation to Chief Malisa, traditional leaders, community representatives, technical partners and other stakeholders whose cooperation contributed to the successful completion of the project.

The handover demonstrates the value of collaboration between business, traditional leadership and communities in addressing local development needs.

For the families of Zimende and Khatshana, the project is a reminder that meaningful development can begin with something as simple — and important — as bringing water closer to home.

-@FungaiMuderere