Kachecheti community celebrates newly constructed weir
By Victor Sibanda
Upbeat celebrations filled the air in the Victoria Falls-Kachecheti Ward community under Chief Mvuthu’s jurisdiction after a recent construction of a much-needed weir. The project was spearheaded by the Amalima Loko Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) with funding from USAID.
This concrete dam, meticulously constructed over 75 days, promises to be a game-changer for local residents and their livestock.
“The dam will be incredibly handy for the community,” enthused Councillor Give-me-again Moyo, representing the ward. He expressed his admiration for the initiative, highlighting how it empowers residents to embark on irrigation projects, fostering self-sufficiency for families.
“The construction itself served as a source of local employment,” Councillor Moyo elaborated. “Community members actively participated, carrying stones, fetching water, and assisting builders in laying the foundation.”
The strategically placed dam boasts enough water capacity to sustain the community until the next rainy season. It will primarily serve four villages: Chisuma 2, BH34, BH 36, and Phakama.
Councillor Moyo, a tireless champion for his constituents, revealed ongoing efforts to establish another irrigation project in collaboration with Amalima Loko. This larger project, targeting residents in BH28, BH29, and Lupinyu, promises to further bolster the community’s agricultural potential.
Echoing the councillor’s sentiments, Johnson Ndlovu, a resident of Chisuma 2, beamed with happiness. “This initiative is a lifesaver, especially during these El Nino-induced droughts,” he remarked. “Our livestock now have a reliable water source, and seeing irrigation activities flourish brings immense joy.”
Climate change expert, Pride Ncube, applauded the project’s significance. “Dam construction is a cornerstone of climate change resilience and mitigation strategies,” he emphasized. “This vital infrastructure equips the community to adapt and counter the negative effects of climate change on their lives and livelihoods.”
The project’s positive impact extends beyond the immediate community. Ms. Thandoes Banda, a restaurant operator in Victoria Falls, expressed her delight. “Fresh, local produce is always in high demand here,” she explained. “With more water sources readily available, we can expect a consistent supply of high-quality fruits and vegetables throughout the year at reasonable prices. Currently, many suppliers rely on boreholes, which are prone to breakdowns and limited water flow, leading to disruptions and compromised crop quality.”
While Amalima Loko Hwange District Programmes coordinator, Molisa Liyalang, declined to comment on specific inquiries sent to her, the project’s impact speaks volumes. The newly constructed weir stands as a testament to the power of collaboration between NGOs, international aid, and the unwavering spirit of a community determined to thrive in the face of climate challenges.
The goal of the Food and Nutrition Security Policy is to promote and ensure adequate food and nutrition security for all people at all times in Zimbabwe, particularly on improving food security through irrigation schemes in arid regions
