Chitungwiza dam project in limbo

Construction of the long-awaited Muda Dam, a key project aimed at resolving chronic water shortages in Chitungwiza, has yet to begin due to funding constraints, Parliament has been told.

Chitungwiza has been heavily dependent on water supplied by the City of Harare, but supply is increasingly unreliable as Harare struggles to meet its own demand, forcing reductions to surrounding towns.

The proposed Muda Dam, planned along the Mupfure River with a capacity of 53,119 megalitres, forms part of the broader Muda-Nyatsime Dam and waterworks project, which also includes the Nyatsime Dam and related treatment plants and distribution infrastructure. The overall project is valued at approximately US$350 million and is intended to secure long-term water security for Chitungwiza and nearby areas.

Responding to a question from Chitungwiza North MP Godfrey Sithole, Anxious Masuka confirmed that the government has not yet secured financing to commence construction. He noted that current priorities lie with completing 12 dams already at advanced stages, including Kunzvi, Gwayi-Shangani, Tuli-Manyange, Silverstroom, Dande, Bindura, and Semwa dams.

"The government has not yet secured the required financing to commence construction," Masuka said, highlighting that while Muda Dam remains a strategic priority, resources are currently being directed to projects closer to completion.

As Chitungwiza continues to rely on inconsistent water supplies from Harare, residents face ongoing disruptions, underscoring the urgency of securing funding and advancing the Muda Dam project.