The rehabilitation of Wanezi Dam in Insiza North, Matabeleland South, is expected to transform irrigation, create jobs and strengthen food security in the area after more than five years of work.
The project, which cost about US$2 million, includes a solar-powered irrigation scheme, has been completed, and is set for official commissioning on 7 May.
The upgrade was implemented through the Community Climate Adaptation Water and Energy Project (Cawep) funded by the British Embassy and implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) working with Government departments.
Ward 17 councillor Sindiso Ndlovu said the rehabilitation work had already delivered early economic benefits for the surrounding communities.
“UNDP, through the government, rehabilitated the dam, and the total cost was two million,” he said.
He said more than 200 local residents were employed during the construction and rehabilitation phase of the project.
The irrigation component of the scheme will be managed by a team of 50 people drawn from Wards 17 and 19 in Insiza North, as well as Wards 8 and 9 in neighbouring Insiza South.
“These members were drawn from neighbouring wards, ensuring that the benefits of the infrastructure are distributed across the district,” Cllr Ndlovu said.
He said the project is expected to support long-term livelihoods through irrigation farming, value addition and fisheries development.
“This project will help the community in terms of self-employment, value addition and fishing,” he said.
Authorities say the solar-powered irrigation system is intended to improve resilience in a region frequently affected by erratic rainfall, allowing farmers to grow crops throughout the year.
Constructed in 1952, Wanezi Dam, which was a major source of livelihood for farmers, was damaged by Cyclone Dineo in 2016, leaving villagers in despair.