Story by Mhlomuli Ncube
COMMUNITIES around the Gwayi-Shangani Lake are excited by the progress of the project, which is confirmation of government’s rural transformation agenda.
As momentum continues on the implementation of the Gwayi Shangani Lake project, which is a few kilometres from Mabale shopping centre, the people are excited by the prospects of their lives’ transformation.
For both young and old, the lake will be an important driver of development that will give a major face-lift to the area.
“This dam will have a huge impact here. I see a lot of businesses opening up,” said an optimistic resident.
“This place will be a very important impetus of growth and we are happy,” added a delighted community member.
“You will also realise that this project and its benefits will actually help urbanise this place,” noted another resident.
As the dam wall continues to rise in line with the completion target of year end, focus has now shifted more to what will happen afterwards.
The government through its ‘leaving no place and no persons behind’ mantra has emphasised that massive irrigation projects will begin in earnest after the construction of the Lake.
Downstream industries in tourism, agriculture and other businesses inform the bigger vision of growth around the project with communities set to benefit directly either through employment or many self- help projects.
