Residents in parts of Hwange say they are now accessing clean and reliable water after the completion of two solar-powered borehole projects funded under the 2024 Constituency Development Fund (CDF).
The boreholes, located in Wards 1 and 5 of Hwange Central Constituency, are aimed at easing persistent water shortages that have forced some families to rely on streams and other unsafe sources.
Hwange Central Member of Parliament Daniel Molokele confirmed the projects were complete and operational.
The development has been welcomed by community members, who say it comes at a critical time as supplies remain erratic.
Ward 5 Community Development Committee member Selina Mbewe said the new boreholes had already made a noticeable difference.
“The boreholes mean a lot to the community, especially this time when we can go for days without water,” she said.
“Today we woke up without water, with no warning from Zimbabwe National Water Authority. Before the boreholes were installed, the community would go fetch water in the streams, which causes health hazards. We thank the Honourable for saving our community from these risks.”
Another resident, Fidelis Chima, who is also the coordinator of the Greater Hwange Residents Association, described the project as a positive step but called for wider collaboration to address the town’s broader water challenges.
“This is a welcome development, and we call on different stakeholders, including mining companies, to come on board and help alleviate water challenges in the area,” he said.
Hwange, a mining town in Matabeleland North province, has faced recurring water shortages in recent years, worsened by drought and ageing infrastructure.
The newly installed solar-powered boreholes are expected to provide a more sustainable and consistent supply of water, reducing dependence on unsafe sources and improving health outcomes for residents.
The projects form part of wider efforts to strengthen water access and resilience in Hwange Central, particularly as communities grapple with the impact of climate variability and infrastructure constraints.