SEVEN village business units are operational along the Mtshabezi Dam pipeline as government’s dam economy concept gathers momentum in Matabeleland South province.
The dam economy fell under the National Development Strategy 1 food and nutrition security cluster, which sought to boost food self-sufficiency, improve nutrition and strengthen community resilience against climate change.
Mtshabezi Dam, which supplies water to Bulawayo, has evolved to a vital economic anchor for the region.
Beyond conveying water for domestic use, the pipeline supports irrigation schemes, village business units, fisheries and a growing tourism activity.
In addition to the 50 million cubic metres of water channelled to the city, the pipeline has been instrumental in stimulating multiple economic activities across Matabeleland South.
“This is one of the key drivers of the province’s economy,” said Agritex deputy director Mkunjulelwa Ndlovu.
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“The dam supplies water to Mtshabezi, Zidlabusiku and Mzinyathini irrigation schemes, seven village business units along the pipeline and during summer, we see many tourists engaging in activities that are critical to our local economy.”
One of the seven village business units, Ntshene, has become a standout example of how the dam economy is transforming livelihoods.
Local residents welcomed the project’s positive impact.
“Mtshabezi Dam has changed our lives.
“We are growing various crops and we are happy that water is finally reaching us.
“We even have a reservoir for our cattle fed from the pipeline,” said one community member.
Added another: “We never imagined having fresh mealies in December, but now it is possible.”