Online Reporter
Nkosilathi Sibanda
VILLAGERS from Lupanda village, Ward 22, Lupane district in Matabeleland North province are now experiencing an improved quality of life following the drilling of a solar-powered borehole in the area.
For a long time, community members had to traverse considerable distances of over five to 10 kilometres to obtain water.
However, this situation has now changed with the introduction of the new water supply that was launched last Friday.
The borehole is intended to serve more than 200 households.
It was commissioned after a campaign initiated by the Lupanda Thuthukani Women’s Association, with assistance from the Mpilo Foundation.
One of the leaders of the Lupanda Thuthukani Women’s Association, Mr Mfundo Sibanda said the initiative will focus on establishing community gardens, where families will get food and financial assistance through agriculture.
“On Friday last week, it was a life-changing day for the community of Lupanda in Ward 22. We launched a solar-powered borehole. This was thanks to the hard work of the Lupanda Thuthukani Women’s Association; of which I am one of the founding members.
“This life-changing project was made possible through the generous aid from Mpilo Foundation. We are very grateful for their support,” said Mr Sibanda, who also hails from Lupanda village.
He said the borehole would ease the burden on many villagers.
“The borehole will provide a reliable source of clean water for our community, alleviating the daily struggles our women and children face in accessing this basic necessity. The impact of this borehole cannot be overstated. It will not only improve the health and well-being of our community members but also empower our women and girls to pursue their dreams without the burden of long walks to fetch water.
“In addition, it will create a greenbelt in the area thereby promoting sustainable livelihoods. I’d like to extend my heartfelt appreciation to Mpilo Foundation for their trust in our association and for believing in our vision. To my team, particularly the coordinator Curzon Sibanda. Their tireless efforts have paid off, and I’m honored to work alongside such dedicated individuals. This achievement is a testament to what can be accomplished through collaboration and determination,” said Mr Sibanda.
