By Promise Dube
Villagers in Ward 5, Insiza South District, are urgently appealing for assistance to replace solar panels that power a community borehole, which were damaged in a recent storm.
Heavy winds uprooted three of the solar panels, leaving only one operational panel, and plunging the community into a dire situation.
The borehole serves as the sole water source for around 1 000 households and Mabuze Primary School, providing essential water for both domestic use and agriculture.
Ward 5 Councillor Ngobe Masonga explained that villagers now face significant challenges in securing enough water for their households and livestock.
“The storm caused a lot of damage and has disrupted the community’s daily routine of fetching water,” said Cllr Masonga.
This isn’t the first time the community has faced such difficulties. Earlier this year, the solar panels were stolen, but the community managed to recover them through collective efforts.
“When the dam dried up, the community worked together in building tanks for storing water for cattle, Mildred Natasha Maseko, a villager donated cement,” he said.
However, ongoing drought conditions have exacerbated the situation, resulting in distressing livestock losses and a growing urgency for a stable water supply. The villagers are appealing for assistance to restore the damaged solar panels and ensure a reliable water source. Those willing to help can contact Mashawi Ndlovu at 0716773792
