Story by Tapiwa Machemedze
MUZARABANI – RESIDENTS of Muzarabani are convinced that the US$270 million Mbada Dam project will transform the farming area into a greenbelt, thus becoming a pedestal for rural development.
The project, initiated by government under the Public-Sector Investment Project (PSIP) comprises benefits which include 15 000 hectares of irrigation covering Muzarabani district, hydropower generation and clean drinking water for Centenary town.
The local community has expressed anticipation and enthusiasm over the progress of the dam’s construction.
“We were happy when work began on the dam because this area is dry yet there are fertile soils, so we want this project to work,” a resident said.
“This project will transform this area in as far as agriculture is concerned. We will be able to enhance crop production, form fisheries and other economic activities so we are eagerly awaiting the project,” another added.
Special Advisor to the President for Monitoring Implementation of Government Projects, Dr Joram Gumbo toured the Mbada dam site, describing the project as a cornerstone for development.
“It is an important project not just for this community, but also for the country as a whole because it will provide a lot of benefits including enhancement of water supply to the community nearby and also to Centenary business centre, which will also enhance food security. My impression is that this is one of the projects being undertaken by government which should be properly funded to meet and match the mantra of the President that no place and no one should be left behind,” Dr Gumbo said.
The Zimbabwe National Water Authority (ZINWA) is the engineer for Mbada Dam being constructed by Makombo Construction.
Chief Chiweshe said traditional leaders are fully behind Mbada dam construction and carried out the necessary traditional rites to ensure smooth construction.
“As traditional leaders, this is the development which we yearn for. This will have immense benefits for the people. We expect transformation in line with government’s development trajectory.”
Wholly funded by government PSIP programme, Mbada Dam construction was allocated ZiG36 million in the 2025 national budget.
