Faith Ndou
CHIVI-The Government, through the Rural Infrastructure Development Agency (RIDA) has launched a project to rehabilitate Makonese Dam in Chivi North Constituency, an initiative aimed to improve livelihoods, expand irrigation and boost food security.
In 2025, heavy rains damaged the dam, disrupting irrigation for more than 200 hectares of farmland and affecting 720 households.
The rehabilitation project will not only restore irrigation but also result in the establishment of 38 Village Business Units (VBUs) to encourage community participation, promote inclusive development and strengthen rural economic resilience in this area.
Member of Parliament for Chivi North, Godfrey Huruva Mukungunugwa welcomed the project, describing it as a demonstration of the President Mnangagwa’s commitment to rural development.
He also thanked President Mnangagwa for prioritising rural development through the Presidential Irrigation Scheme as part of Vision30.
“We thank the President for responding to the needs of Chivi District by rehabilitating the dam wall that supplies water for irrigation to this community,” Mukungunugwa said.
“The district will also benefit from 38 solar-powered boreholes and 38 Village Business Units around the dam.”
Traversal Trading which was contracted by Government to rehabilitate the dam had already started work and is expected to finish before the next rain season.
Sitshengiso Zivave, RIDA’s Director of Water Resources, said “The project includes clearing debris from the dam, repairing irrigation canals, restoring water pipelines and building the VBUs to improve access to irrigation water for local farmers.”
Communities expressed gratitude for the project, noting its importance for food production, income generation and employment opportunities.
Leticia Matayaya from Village Tambu, Ward 9, Chivi, said “We thank the Government and the President for rehabilitating Makonese Dam. This project will provide jobs for our youth, reduce social problems and ensure food security for our families.”
“The rehabilitation of Makonese Dam is expected to bring lasting benefits to Chivi North, ensuring communities have reliable access to water for farming and livestock while creating opportunities for economic growth and sustainable development,” she added.
The successful completion of the project is expected to transform agriculture in Chivi North, enhance food security and provide a sustainable source of income and employment for local residents for years to come.
The event was attended by Chief Chivi born Adline Mausa, Zvishavane Ngezi MP Mecky Jaravaza, wealthy businessman Clever Anthony Pote, Traversal director Gaylaid Chizana, Masvingo businessman Taurai Mudzviti, Traversal executive administrator Esnath Mucheni, Chivi District Development Coordinator Innocent Matingwina, AGRITEX district officer Bridghton Hadzirabwi, councillors, villagers and community leaders.
