Chiredzi farm workers hit hard by water crisis

Farm workers in Chiredzi Central's Wards 19, 30, and 31 are grappling with a worsening water crisis, forcing many to drink contaminated water and live without access to proper sanitation facilities. The dire situation has been linked to a surge in waterborne diseases among workers on farms 51 and 24.

During a community meeting organized by Community Tolerance Reconciliation and Development (Cotrad), residents described the hardships they face daily. In Ward 30, people rely on water from sources shared with livestock, a practice blamed for persistent diarrhea outbreaks among both school children and adults.

"We are forced to drink dirty water, and we're falling ill. We need clean water and proper toilets to protect our health," said one farm worker who spoke at the meeting.

Many residents reported having to walk up to one kilometer to fetch water, compounding their challenges. The absence of adequate toilets on the farms has also contributed to unsanitary conditions, increasing the risk of disease outbreaks.

For years, sugarcane farming in Chiredzi has been dominated by war veterans and politically connected individuals, many aligned with the ruling party, who acquired farms previously owned by white farmers.

Ward 19 councillor Lovemore Muchono confirmed the crisis, noting that local authorities have engaged with farm owners of Farm 51 and 24, but met resistance.

"We tried to engage with the farmers, but they said they don't have funds to build toilets and drill boreholes," Muchono said.

"We raised the issue in council, and we are awaiting disbursement of devolution funds to assist the workers who are being exposed to diseases due to lack of water and toilets."

Ward 30 councillor Edmore Simbanegavi stressed the urgency of the situation and called for immediate government intervention.

"The situation here needs urgent attention from the RDC and the government. We will continue to engage with the farmers and the government on how best we can solve the issue," Simbanegavi said.

Cotrad has urged the Chiredzi Rural District Council, relevant public officials, and the Ministry of Local Government to respond promptly to the community's call for improved water and sanitation services, as guaranteed by the constitution.

The organization also encouraged residents to engage fearlessly and peacefully with authorities and ministries to ensure their concerns are addressed.

As water and sanitation challenges persist, the health and livelihoods of thousands of farm workers in Chiredzi remain under threat.