Story by Tichaona Kurewa
THE Gwayi-Shangani Lake project, one of Zimbabwe’s flagship infrastructure developments, is nearing completion, with construction now at 75 percent and authorities confident the dam will be finished by the end of the year.
The project, which is set to transform water security and drive economic development in Matabeleland North and Bulawayo, has gained momentum under the Second Republic after decades of delays since it was first proposed in 1924.
Progress across critical components of the dam has been steady, with key structures advancing towards completion.
“In terms of overall implementation, we are now at a cumulative progress level of 75 percent. This includes work on the mini-hydro plant, the intake tower, and Pump Station Zero, which is being constructed to convey water to Bulawayo. Currently, the left bank embankment stands at 49 metres. On the spillway section, we are at 45 metres against a target of 61 metres, leaving about 15 metres to reach the full supply level. The right bank embankment is at 47 metres,” said Assistant Resident Engineer for the Gwayi-Shangani Lake Project, Engineer Joakim Banda.
Authorities say sustained Government funding has been critical in accelerating progress and keeping the project on track.
“We have set a new deadline for completion towards the end of this year. Since July last year, the Government, through the Minister of Finance, has been consistently disbursing US$5 million every month. We are confident that, with this reliable funding, the project will be completed on schedule,” Engineer Banda added.
Matabeleland North Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Richard Moyo, commended the pace of work, describing the development as a major milestone for the province.
“As Matabeleland North Province, we are impressed by the remarkable progress at the Gwayi-Shangani Dam project. We applaud the Government for consistently releasing US$5 million, which has enabled the contractor to work around the clock. We look forward to the transformative impact this project will have on the province and beyond,” he said.
Beyond addressing water challenges, the project is expected to unlock significant economic opportunities, including agriculture, fisheries and tourism.
A 256-kilometre pipeline will supply water to Bulawayo, while also creating a green belt that is set to boost agricultural production and rural development along the route.
The lake’s proximity to a game park is also expected to enhance tourism potential, positioning the area as a growing economic hub in Matabeleland North.
