Bulawayo commissions new water pumps

The City of Bulawayo has commissioned new pumps and related infrastructure at the uMzingwane Pump Station, a development expected to significantly improve bulk water delivery to the city.

The project was funded by the Government of Zimbabwe following recommendations made by the 20-member Bulawayo Technical Committee on Water, which was established in 2023 to provide technical support in addressing the city's persistent water supply challenges.

The committee recommended the replacement of ageing infrastructure to improve water delivery capacity, leading the Government to release ZWG22.7 million for water augmentation projects, including the installation of new pumps and associated electrical infrastructure at the station.

Established in 1973, the uMzingwane Pump Station had been operating with ageing equipment, making the latest upgrade the first major replacement of its pumping infrastructure since commissioning more than five decades ago.

The commissioning ceremony was officiated by the Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Bulawayo Metropolitan Province, Judith Ncube, who was represented by Permanent Secretary Paul Nyoni.

Addressing stakeholders, Nyoni emphasised the importance of collaboration between government, local authorities and technical experts in improving service delivery and addressing infrastructure challenges.

Bulawayo Mayor David Coltart was represented at the event by Councillor Royini Sekete, who conveyed the city's appreciation for the financial support provided by central government.

Coltart said the investment would contribute to improving water supply reliability, although he acknowledged that additional interventions would still be required to permanently resolve Bulawayo's long-standing water challenges.

He noted that the project demonstrates continued efforts by both government and the local authority to improve service delivery for residents, businesses and other stakeholders.

The ceremony was attended by councillors, Acting Town Clerk Sikhangele Zhou, heads of council departments, officials from the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works, and the chairperson of the Bulawayo Technical Committee on Water, Annatoria Chinyama.

The new infrastructure is expected to enhance the efficiency of bulk water pumping operations and strengthen the city's ability to manage supply, particularly during periods of increased demand.

Bulawayo has faced recurring water shortages for years due to ageing infrastructure, low dam levels and growing demand, making investment in water supply systems a key priority for both local and national authorities.