US$850 million Kunzvi Dam completion set for Decem...

US$850 million Kunzvi Dam completion set for December

Zim Now Writer

The US$850 million Kunzvi Dam construction status currently stands at 46% with completion targeted for end of December.

“As for now, the Kunzvi Dam completion status stands at 46%. We are currently working on the foundation and also the drilling and grouting on the foundation. For the spillway, the sub-contractor is almost starting and after that we can go on with the bulk blasting,” resident engineer of the Kunzvi Dam project, David Madondo said.

He was briefing Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Dr Apolnia Munzverengwi, who was on a visit to the dam construction site to check on progress.

She expressed satisfaction with the Chinese-led construction team.

“The construction works of the dam kicked off in the previous year and there is so much progress we have seen here,” said Minister Munzverengwi.

Minister Munzverengwi said relocation of some families, who will be affected when the dam catches water, must be done as a matter of urgency as it is hindering progress.

“In regards to the construction process of the dam, there is urgent need for the workers to go on with the blasting but unfortunately they are unable to do so because we still have people residing within the radius. These people will be affected by the blasts in case they are conducted,” she said.

The minister said of the 450 families living within the dam area, 34 will be relocated by the end of March.

“I have given that responsibility to our lands officer and irrigation technician. We already have a farm in place for that,” said the minister.

The dam is set to ease Harare’s water woes as well as supply water to Goromonzi residents, primarily at service centres, schools and clinics.

It will also ensure smooth operation at Prospect Lithium Zimbabwe and Arcturus mines both located in Goromonzi.

The minister added that there was need to supply water to the Goromonzi business centre, with the pipeline having to pass through the Prospect Lithium Zimbabwe and the Arcturus Mine.