Story by Courage Bushe
SEVERAL rural communities in Shurugwi District, including Dombwe, Dera and Matsa, are recording improved access to clean water and enhanced agricultural activity following the implementation of the Presidential Borehole Drilling Scheme.
The government-led programme involves the drilling and installation of solar-powered boreholes, aimed at addressing chronic water shortages, reducing distances travelled in search of water and improving rural livelihoods in line with the Second Republic’s inclusive development agenda of leaving no one and no place behind.
Community members said the availability of reliable water sources has already begun to change daily life, particularly for households previously affected by long water queues and seasonal shortages.
Residents added that the boreholes have enabled them to establish nutrition gardens, improving household food security and incomes.
“I personally think if we safeguard this equipment, we are poised for greater heights. We are lagging behind in terms of development, but with this initiative, we are on track to achieve Vision 2030,” a benefactor said.
“As villagers, we commend the Presidential Borehole Drilling Scheme which is a true reflection of the Second Republic’s philosophy of leaving no one and no place behind in the national development matrix,” a community member said.
“We are now able to do our nutritional gardens without problems since we have been equipped with a good borehole here,” another community member said.
Shurugwi North legislator, Honourable Joseph Mupasi, said the borehole drilling programme would play a key role in transforming rural livelihoods and easing the burden on communities.
“This is a clear indication that we have a caring government, and I believe this programme will play a key role in reducing distances travelled by our people in search of the precious liquid. We are on track with the construction of village nutrition gardens at every borehole we have sunk. This will play a crucial role in uplifting the standards of living for rural communities,” he said.
The drilling and installation of solar-powered boreholes continue across Shurugwi District, with government officials saying the initiative is making a measurable contribution to water security and rural development.
