Story by Chiedza Mutyavaviri
PRESIDENT Dr Emmerson Mnangagwa has called for urgent investment in water infrastructure, innovation and sustainable sanitation systems, warning that water security is critical to Africa’s industrialisation drive, economic growth and Agenda 2063 ambitions.
In his Africa Day address on Monday, President Mnangagwa said rising population growth, urbanisation and expanding agricultural and industrial activity were placing growing pressure on the continent’s water resources.
This year’s Africa Day commemorations are being held under the theme: “Assuring Sustainable Water Availability and Safe Sanitation Systems to Achieve Agenda 2063.”
“Access to safe water, sanitation, and hygiene is a basic human need for health and well-being,” said President Mnangagwa.
“Additionally, water remains a critical ingredient to Africa’s quest for industrialisation, job creation and overall economic growth.”
The President said climate-related challenges, including droughts and floods, continue to threaten sustainable development despite Africa possessing vast water resources.
He urged African countries to increase investment in water harvesting, wastewater recycling, solar-powered water systems and digital monitoring technologies, while placing science, technology and innovation at the centre of water management strategies.
“The future of our continent depends on our ability to harness African knowledge, resources, and ingenuity. This is in keeping with our enduring philosophy, ‘African solutions to African problems’,” he said.
President Mnangagwa also challenged universities, research institutions and innovators to develop home-grown solutions tailored to the continent’s unique conditions.
Highlighting Zimbabwe’s efforts to strengthen water security, the President cited several projects being implemented under the Second Republic, including the Chirundu Water Supply and Sanitation Project Phase One by the Zimbabwe National Water Authority (ZINWA).
He also referenced the Glassblock Bopoma Dam and Pipeline Project, which is expected to improve water supplies to Bulawayo and surrounding areas.
President Mnangagwa further highlighted the “Empowering Women-Led Drone Enterprises for Water-Efficient Agriculture and Livelihood Diversification in Zimbabwe” initiative, which seeks to promote climate-smart agriculture and women’s economic empowerment through drone technology.
He said the projects reflect Zimbabwe’s commitment to modernising infrastructure, promoting innovation and driving inclusive socio-economic development.
The President also reaffirmed Zimbabwe’s commitment to Pan-Africanism, regional integration and the African Continental Free Trade Area, while urging citizens, particularly the youth, to embrace patriotism, environmental stewardship, innovation and hard work.
President Mnangagwa said Africa Day remains a symbol of the unity and sacrifice of the founding fathers of the Organisation of African Unity, now the African Union, whose vision laid the foundation for a free, peaceful and integrated continent.
