GOVERNMENT has extended its begging bowl to China for funds to complete construction of the stalled Tokwe-Mukosi Dam project, a senior official has said.
By Tatenda Chitagu
Speaking on a progress-check tour of a $500 000 winter maize project in the Lowveld sponsored by sugar-producing concern Tongaat Hulett last Friday, Psychomotor minister Josaya Hungwe said he was set to travel to the Far East this week to engage the Chinese, but refused to give finer details.
“I am going to China to sell the idea. I met twice with the Chinese ambassador to Zimbabwe over the issue. I briefed them on the opportunities from the water from the dam like tourism, fisheries, hydro-power and irrigation, among other opportunities,” he said.
Asked how much government was seeking from Zanu PF’s “all-weather friend”, Hungwe chose to be tight-lipped.
“We will invite the Chinese ambassador to Zimbabwe to tour the dam project to see the state of the dam and what is needed. But for now, I prefer to be silent about the deal,” Hungwe said.
The Tokwe-Mukosi Dam project has had several false starts since it started in 1998. It stalled early this year after government failed to pay over $80 million to the Italian contractor, Salin Impregilio.
The company has since left the site and shipped its earthmoving equipment to other projects in Africa. Another $30 million is required to finish the dam, which is 80% complete.
