The Zimbabwe Red Cross Society (ZRCS) recently made a significant contribution to the well-being of the Gudomutovhoti community in Mwenezi district by handing over a piped water scheme.
Speaking at the ceremony on behalf of Masvingo Provincial Affairs and Devolution minister Ezra Chadzamira, deputy director Infrastructure Planning and Environmental Management Clorence Matewe said the Zero Hunger project was aimed at ensuring easy access to water.
“Mwenezi district’s arid conditions and erratic rainfall have long posed challenges in accessing water, but we are grateful that the Gudomutovhoti Piped Water Scheme will help toresolve these water issues,” Chadzamira said.
The pipeline network spans 2km and includes additional infrastructure such as a cattle trough, pump house, guard house and three taps at each standpipe.
ZRCS president Edson Mlambo said the intervention would reduce the distance travelled to access water.
“In addition to households accessing clean potable water closer to their homes, livestock will have access to enough drinking water, reducing the need to travel long distances to nearby dams,” he said.
“The nutrition garden established as part of the scheme will improve household nutrition by providing a sustainable source of vegetables and legumes.”
Elias Hwenga, ZRCS secretary-general, said the project was initiated in response to severe hunger and critical water challenges faced by the community.
“The project anchored on three pillars — food security and livelihoods, health and nutrition as well as water, sanitation and hygiene — focused on three wards, targeting 850 households and provides immediate relief while tackling the root causes of food insecurity, aligning with government plans and frameworks to enhance community resilience,” he said.
The project implemented by the Zimbabwe Red Cross Society (ZRCS) and its partners has made a significant impact on vulnerable communities by offering assistance to 850 households and malnourished children in food-insecure areas.
Through cash transfers, vouchers, and support from local health workers, the initiative aims to alleviate acute malnutrition and improve the overall health of those affected.
SOURCE : NEWSDAY
