The Glassblock Bopoma Dam is a proposed water infrastructure project aimed at addressing Bulawayoโs persistent water shortages.
Located at the intersection of Gwanda, Umzingwane, and Filabusi districts in Matabeleland South Province, the dam is designed to have a holding capacity of 130 million cubic metres, making it the cityโs second-largest water supply source after Insiza Dam.
A 32-kilometer pipeline will connect the dam to the Ncema Dam pump station, facilitating water delivery to Bulawayo.
The government has endorsed the project, with the Minister of Finance Prof Mthuli Ncube, being quoted in the media stating that the project had received the backing of the state.
Significance for Bulawayo
Bulawayo has historically faced water scarcity due to inadequate rainfall and limited storage capacity. The Glassblock Bopoma Dam is expected to augment the cityโs water supply, providing an additional daily yield of 68 megalitres. This enhancement is anticipated to stabilise water availability for residents, industries, and agriculture, thereby supporting economic growth and improving the quality of life.
Once completed, it will become the seventh water supply dam for the city. The city is currently relying on Mtshabezi, Insiza, Lower Ncema, Upper Ncema, Inyankuni, and Mzingwane dams for its bulk water supplies.
Project Financing and Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs)
The estimated cost of constructing the Glassblock Bopoma Dam is about US$100 million. The project is being implemented through a public-private partnership (PPP), a collaborative arrangement where private entities participate in financing, constructing, and managing public infrastructure projects. This model leverages private investment to reduce the financial burden on public resources while benefiting from private sector expertise and efficiency. Notably, the project has attracted interest from significant investors, including a US$50 million expression from Standard Bank of South Africa and interest from the African Development Bank.
Main Contractor
The construction contract for the Glassblock Bopoma Dam has been awarded to JRG Construction, led by businessman Mr. James Ross (JR) Goddard. The company has commenced preparatory land clearance and has deployed machinery to the site, with the construction expected to be completed within four years.
Impact on Water Tariffs
The Bulawayo City Council (BCC) has indicated that the increased raw water supply from the dam will result in a US$0.16 increase in water consumption charges, raising rates from the current US$1.22 to US$1.38 per cubic meter. This adjustment is intended to cover the costs associated with the new infrastructure and ensure the projectโs financial sustainability. While this increase may present challenges for some residents, the improved reliability of water supply is expected to provide long-term benefits.
Similar Projects in Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe has undertaken several dam construction projects to enhance water security. For instance, the Gwayi-Shangani Dam, part of the National Matabeleland Zambezi Water Project, aims to address water shortages in the region. Additionally, the government has supported the construction and rehabilitation of various dams across the country to mitigate the impacts of climate change and population growth on water resources.
