Story by Mhlomuli Ncube, Matabeleland North Bureau
Communities in Matabeleland North Province are contributing to the design of the master plan for the Gwayi-Shangani Lake and other projects around the water body.
The brainstorming session attended by traditional leaders, rural district councils, the political and government representatives at the weekend discussed the objective of the Gwayi-Shangani Lake and the implementation of other projects around the lake.
Chief Mathupula noted, ‘‘We want to benefit directly from the water and we want it to change lives. It can’t pass through our areas all the way to Bulawayo without helping the communities on its route.’’
Chief Nekatamba said, ‘‘We are happy that the project’s scope from the government emphasises the importance to locals.
“For Matabeleland North, this is important. This is a resource that can be shared equally and improve the socio-economic lives of many of our people.’’
Government is happy that locals are part and parcel of the master plan for the project.
The Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Honourable July Moyo noted, ‘‘The people here are the owners of the project, hence we always want to hear from them. They are the ones who should tell us how to go about in implementation.’’
Matabeleland North Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Honourable Richard Moyo said, ‘This is a massive Second Republic investment for the people of Matabeleland North. Its inclusive approach is very important.’’
The US$275 million Gwayi-Shangani Lake and other projects are progressing, with a pipeline to Bulawayo set to be constructed once the super structure is complete.
