Delta Corporation has urged the Bulawayo City Council (BCC) to prioritise the provision of reliable water services for both industry and residents, saying consistent supply is essential for the city’s economic recovery.
The appeal was made during the groundbreaking ceremony for Delta Beverages’ new US$35 million brewhouse in Belmont.
Delta Corporation Board Chairperson Todd Moyo said steady water and municipal services are vital for industrial growth.
“We value the ongoing collaborations on equipping boreholes at the Nyamandlovu aquifers, which are vital for Bulawayo’s water security,” Moyo said.
He said long-delayed projects such as the Glass Block Dam and Shangani Dam should be completed to ease the city’s chronic water shortages.
“These projects are not only critical for Delta’s operations but for the long-term stability of Bulawayo and the region,” he said.
Moyo cited Delta’s cooperation with the city on recent projects, including the resurfacing of Leamington Road, expansion of a section of the Harare Highway near the Fairbridge Brewery, and the installation of a waterline into Umguza.
He said the new brewhouse reflects Delta’s commitment to reinvest in Bulawayo.
“The upgrade of the Belmont plant is key to improving supply and maintaining the quality our customers expect. This city gave life to the company that has become Zimbabwe’s largest beverages manufacturer.”
Despite the relocation of many industries to Harare over the years, Moyo said Delta remains committed to Bulawayo.
“By investing here again, we reaffirm our faith in this city, its people, its talent, and its role as Zimbabwe’s industrial centre.”
He said the brewery’s packaging project, valued at about US$17 million, is part of a wider US$35 million upgrade that includes a second packaging line, fermentation vessels, and other equipment. The expansion will raise production capacity to around 1.5 million hectolitres per year.
“This investment will create jobs during construction and provide opportunities for local contractors, engineers, artisans, and suppliers, particularly from Bulawayo and nearby communities,” Moyo said.
He also called on ZESA and other utility providers to prioritise industrial zones and work closely with the council and private sector.
Bulawayo Deputy Mayor Edwin Ndlovu welcomed Delta’s decision to expand in the city.
“Delta has been one of our key industrial partners, contributing to the city’s revenue base, creating jobs, and supporting community development for decades,” Ndlovu said.
He said the investment comes as Bulawayo seeks to reclaim its role as Zimbabwe’s industrial hub.
“We are pleased that this project will create local employment and procurement opportunities for Bulawayo-based businesses,” he said.
Ndlovu added that the city’s sustainable urban growth plan encourages companies like Delta to integrate water efficiency, renewable energy, and waste management into their operations.
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