Story by Mhlomuli Ncube
THE government says it is committed to the completion of the Gwayi-Shangani Lake after cabinet resolved to avail US$5 million every month towards the project.
The Second Republic says the project is important to the nation, coming at a time when the need for reliable water has occupied discussions in government circles.
The Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, Dr Anxious Masuka said the government views the Gwayi-Shangani Lake as a national priority project and an urgent developmental programme that will immensely benefit the society.
“Cabinet directed that US$5 million be set aside every month for the Gwayi-Shangani. The needs include dealing with the construction and also attending to issues of how affected families will be assisted. This is a priority project which the President wants to be addressed. Significant progress has been made on the hydro power station and the construction of the pump stations.”
“We are happy about this resolution as Matabeleland North, we know the impact of this project and how it will change lives,” Matabeleland North Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Honourable Richard Moyo noted.
The Gwayi-Shangani Lake project will create an agriculture greenbelt in the area and also cascade down to other industries such as tourism, power and energy development.
The lake will also solve Bulawayo’s perennial water supply challenges.
