Story by Tichaona Kurewa
THE spilling of Bubi-Lupane Dam in Lupane District is creating fresh opportunities for tourism and economic growth, with stakeholders optimistic that the water body could become a key driver of development in the area.
While the dam’s primary function remains water supply, attention is increasingly turning to its potential to support a broader dam-based economy anchored on tourism, fisheries and recreational activities.
Stakeholders say the development is already attracting wildlife to the area, enhancing its appeal as a destination for nature-based tourism and investment.
“We are seeing a lot of wildlife that is coming into the area, which means in terms of tourism, tourism is going to improve. There are more positives than negatives with regard to the filling of the dam. The spilling of the dam is a very positive development,” CEO Kusile Rural District Council Hadebe said.
The improved water levels are also expected to stimulate economic activity through fisheries and recreation-based enterprises.
“This improved water security position unlocks the socio-economic development in Lupane fisheries, as well as tourism and recreation activities around the dam,” Stakeholder Relations Officer Zimbabwe National Water Authority Tsungirirai Shoriwa said.
