Ndolwane villagers in Plumtree, who are based in the diaspora, have come together to construct Jowa dam as part of the efforts to eradicate water challenges in the area.
The project started in 2007 with only a few members contributing.
The project has 96 dedicated members who had initially envisioned to each contribute R1500.
When complete, the dam will benefit villages such as Mposela, Tsukuru, Matama, Mphunyuka, Sindisa, Hungwa, Khandamhlophe, Mafa, and Bharayithi.
Speaking to CITE, the dam project secretary Zenzele Dalawunde said that their area has a challenge of not having a dam that holds water throughout the year.
“Our area has no dams that can hold water all year round. There are small streams that easily dry up between May and June. So, for years, our livestock has been drinking from boreholes, and at times they die. Some villagers have to dig wells in Thekwane rivers about 20 meters deep to get water,” he said.
Dalawunde said that as a community-based in the diaspora who grew up in the area, they saw the need to construct a dam.
“We started contributions in 2020, but it was difficult at first. So far, we have raised R52,000. We were hoping to raise R200,000,” he said.
He said that construction of the dam has commenced with the funds they have managed to raise.
“We got a contractor who has their TBL and helps communities who want to construct small dams like ours. We engaged them and agreed with the amount we had managed to raise so that when the rain season starts, the dam can be functional and we can extend it later,” he said.
Dalawunde said that they hope that some people who could not manage to contribute will do so, as they wish to construct a trench that will be an outlet for excess water so that the dam doesn’t burst.
Those with suggestions, queries, or who wish to assist with the Jowa dam project can contact the project secretary on +27 83 349 1006 or +27 74 835 8235.
