BULAWAYO – In a significant move aimed at improving access to clean water for local residents, a Presidential Command Borehole was officially commissioned at Mahomva Shopping Centre in Bulawayo on Friday. The initiative is expected to ease persistent water shortages in the area and enhance the quality of life for the community.
The commissioning ceremony was attended by ZANU PF Shadow Member of Parliament for the area, Hon. Kamamba, who served as the guest of honour. He was joined by representatives of the Minister of State for Bulawayo, Judith Ncube, with Mr. Gwatiwa acting on the Minister’s behalf.
Kamamba explained that the borehole was drilled under the Presidential Command Borehole Scheme, a national initiative aimed at increasing water accessibility in underserved communities. “This borehole is part of a larger programme initiated by the President to ensure that communities have reliable water sources, especially in areas where water scarcity is a challenge,” he said.
The project was executed through a partnership between Government institutions and local residents. The Zimbabwe National Water Authority (ZINWA) handled the drilling of the borehole, while residents, represented by the Bulawayo United Residents Association and the Bulawayo Progressive Association, contributed to the procurement of essential equipment, including a Jojo tank, a solar panel system, and a water pump. Kamamba noted that local leadership played a key role in coordinating resources and ensuring the project’s successful implementation.
Presidential Command Borehole Commissioned in Bulawayo to Address Local Water Challenges
“This was truly a collaborative effort,” Kamamba said. “ZINWA provided the technical expertise for drilling the borehole, and the community invested in the necessary infrastructure to make it functional. Our leaders facilitated the process and provided guidance to ensure that everything ran smoothly. The borehole will serve as a vital resource for the residents of Mahomva and surrounding areas.”
While the project was not explicitly political, Kamamba acknowledged that residents expressed their appreciation for the ruling party leadership during the ceremony. Community members used the occasion to request additional developments around the borehole site. “The residents asked for complementary initiatives, such as the establishment of a nutrition garden for the elderly, to enhance the overall benefits of this project,” Kamamba said. “These requests demonstrate the community’s commitment to maximizing the impact of the resources provided.”
The commissioning of the Mahomva borehole forms part of broader efforts by Government to strengthen water security in Bulawayo, which has long faced challenges related to inadequate supply and aging infrastructure. By leveraging partnerships between Government bodies, community associations, and local leaders, the initiative aims to ensure that residents have access to safe and reliable water for domestic use, gardening, and other essential activities.
Kamamba highlighted the importance of community participation in such projects, noting that involving residents in the planning and execution phases fosters ownership and sustainability. “When communities are actively involved, they not only benefit from the immediate access to water but also gain the skills and knowledge to maintain and protect the infrastructure for the long term,” he explained.
The project also reflects the integration of modern technology in addressing local water needs. The inclusion of a solar-powered pump system ensures that the borehole operates efficiently while reducing dependence on electricity and lowering operational costs. The Jojo tank, a vital component of the system, provides adequate storage capacity to meet the daily water needs of the Mahomva community.
Local residents expressed optimism that the borehole would significantly alleviate the water shortages that have plagued the area for years. Community leader Sarudzai Moyo said, “This project is a welcome relief. For years, residents have struggled with unreliable water supply, and having a dedicated borehole will make a real difference in our daily lives. We are grateful to everyone who contributed to making this a reality.”
The Presidential Command Borehole initiative in Mahomva underscores the Government’s commitment to improving basic services through collaboration with communities. By combining technical expertise, local resources, and leadership guidance, the project exemplifies a model for sustainable development that can be replicated in other areas facing similar challenges.
As Bulawayo continues to grapple with water scarcity, initiatives like the Mahomva borehole are crucial in ensuring that residents have access to reliable water sources. The project also provides a platform for further development, including community gardens, sanitation projects, and educational programs focused on water conservation and sustainability.
In conclusion, the commissioning of the Mahomva Presidential Command Borehole represents a significant step forward in addressing water challenges in Bulawayo. Through cooperation between Government, local leadership, and community associations, the project promises to improve living conditions, foster community engagement, and serve as a blueprint for similar interventions across Zimbabwe.
Source- Bye24
