Plant delays and USD 84M shortfall threaten completion of key dam
ZimNow News Desk
President Emmerson Mnangagwa has directed Treasury to release USD 5 million monthly toward the stalled Gwayi-Shangani Dam, but Agric minister has warned that the project remains underfunded and at risk of further delays.
Government spokesperson George Charamba confirmed the directive on X, noting that around USD 10 million has been disbursed so far—resulting in just 4 metres of progress on the dam wall. Despite the push, the project is only 72% complete, while the dam wall construction itself is stuck at 70%.
A 10MW mini-hydropower station, critical to powering the 251km pipeline to Bulawayo, has also stalled due to limited funding. Without the plant, water cannot be pumped to Zimbabwe’s second-largest city, undermining the entire Bulawayo water transfer scheme.
“USD 84 million is still required to complete the dam wall,” a recent parliamentary report revealed, highlighting the depth of the funding gap.
Funding Breakdown – 2025 Budget
Agriculture and Water Minister Anxious Masuka confirmed the monthly disbursement plan but admitted that the national allocation falls short.
Calls are growing for Treasury to explore alternative financing—such as public-private partnerships, concessional loans, or international donor support.
Bulawayo continues to face severe water rationing, and Gwayi-Shangani is seen as the long-awaited solution to provide a sustainable water supply for millions and boost economic activity in the region.
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