Bulawayo, (New Ziana) – The City of Bulawayo has welcomed the rollout of the Presidential Borehole Scheme, describing it as a timely intervention that is expected to ease persistent water shortages and improve access to water for residents across the city.
The scheme is being spearheaded by presidential advisor. Dr Paul Tungwarara, with all cities and towns across Zimbabwe expected to benefit from the initiative.
In an interview on Tuesday after the launch of the Presidential Borehole Scheme in Cowdray Park, Bulawayo City Council Finance and Development Committee chairperson, Councillor Mpumelelo Moyo, welcomed the initiative as a timely intervention to ease the city’s water challenges.
But he emphasised that lasting water security can only be achieved through the completion of the Gwayi-Shangani Dam project.
“While this borehole programme will provide immediate relief to many communities, we equally look forward to the completion of long-term strategic projects such as the Gwayi-Shangani Dam and associated pipeline infrastructure, which remain critical to permanently resolving Bulawayo’s water challenges and supporting economic transformation across the region,” he said.
Moyo said the borehole programme was a timely intervention for a city that has endured years of water shortages affecting households, businesses, schools, hospitals and industries.
“The development speaks to a matter that affects every household, every business and every institution in Bulawayo — the issue of water security,” he said.
Moyo noted that recurrent droughts, climate change, population growth, industrial expansion and increasing pressure on ageing infrastructure had worsened water challenges in the second-largest city.
“The reality of water shedding continues to affect residents, schools, hospitals, industries and the broader economy of our city.
“This scheme will bring much-needed relief to communities struggling with limited access to water. It is therefore with appreciation that we welcome the Presidential Borehole Scheme.
“We have observed this programme being implemented in other parts of the country, bringing relief to communities facing similar challenges, and we are grateful that this important initiative has now come to Bulawayo,” said Moyo.
He said development initiatives succeed when the central government, local authorities and communities work together irrespective of political differences.
“As the City of Bulawayo, we believe development succeeds when there is cooperation between central government, local authorities, communities and all stakeholders regardless of political affiliation.
“Residents expect leadership that prioritises service delivery and practical solutions,” he said.
Moyo urged residents to safeguard public infrastructure and use water responsibly to ensure the sustainability of the programme.
Bulawayo has faced recurring water shortages for years due to limited raw water supplies and prolonged droughts.
The city relies on a network of dams whose water levels have frequently fallen below required thresholds, forcing authorities to implement strict water-rationing schedules.
The Gwayi-Shangani Dam project is expected to transform the Matabeleland region by securing water supplies for Bulawayo and surrounding areas, while unlocking opportunities for irrigation, industry and economic development.
New Ziana
