A LOCAL farmer in Sigola area, Umzingwane district, has commissioned a dam built on his farm by renowned contractor JR Goddard Contracting (Pvt) Ltd (JRG).
Survey and preparatory work began in December last year, but construction started last month and was completed in just two weeks.
During the commissioning, James Ross Goddard recalled the farmer Philip Khumalo visiting his Bulawayo office last year seeking assistance.
“He told me he wanted a dam. I calculated and said it would cost US$40 800, payable in instalments over four years,” Goddard said.
“Before the week ended, he paid US$10 000. Towards completion, he paid US$30 000 and this Monday, he settled the remaining US$800 with his nephew. This is a man.”
The dam holds 300 000 cubic metres and is 3,5 metres deep.
Goddard urged Zimbabweans to emulate Khumalo’s development spirit.
Site manager Smart Maphosa said while preparations started in December, construction took only 15 days.
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“We employed local youth, but some misbehaved and were relieved of duty,” he said.
“Those who stayed were disciplined and we hope to work with them again.”
Khumalo said the idea of a dam arose from chronic water shortages.
“When I arrived, we hauled water from Bulawayo for cattle and drinking,” he said.
“We drilled an 80-metre borehole through DDF, but water was scarce and ran out quickly.
“Someone suggested building a dam, and the idea took root.”
Khumalo aims to expand crop farming beyond reliance on rain.
“Our crops wilted without water.
“Now we can irrigate year-round.
“We also plan four fish ponds supplied by the dam and possibly a camping and sightseeing resort like Hillside Dams.”
Councillor Thembisile Tshuma praised the project for employing local youth.
A Local farmer representative, Jaret Mankebe Sibanda, called it a legacy.
“This challenges all farmers, especially absentee landowners, to invest on the ground. Goddard works with everyone ready to partner,” Sibanda said.
