THE long-awaited Gwayi-Shangani Dam project requires an additional US$84 million to be completed, but indications are that the projected December 2025 deadline is not feasible, Parliament heard.
The Gwayi-Shangani Dam, a major component of the Matabeleland Zambezi Water Project, has faced multiple setbacks and missed several deadlines.
A report tabled before Parliament by the Portfolio Committee on Local Government and the thematic committee on sustainable development goals, led by Chief Siansali, revealed challenges facing the project.
"The Gwayi–Shangani Dam is expected to supply 220 megalitres of water daily to Bulawayo — far exceeding the city's current 165 megalitre daily demand — making it a game-changer in addressing Bulawayo’s water crisis,” the report read.
"The committee noted that US$84 million is required to complete the dam wall and 18 months will be needed to finalise the entire project, assuming all necessary conditions remain stable,"
"Despite its immense benefits for Bulawayo and Matabeleland North, the project poses a significant social challenge, as it will result in the displacement of communities in Binga and Hwange districts."
"The committee emphasised the need for proper planning, resettlement strategies and fair compensation to mitigate the negative impact on affected communities."
Several deadlines have passed since the project, which is seen as a long-lasting solution to Bulawayo’s water woes, was mooted in 1912 by the colonial government.
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Initially set for completion in December 2023, the project was pushed to December 2024 due to resource constraints.
The completion deadline was later pushed to December this year, but Parliament heard that a further 18 months were needed.
The 2025 national budget allocated ZiG1 billion to the project, with ZiG700 million directed towards dam construction and ZiG282 million earmarked for the pipeline linking the dam to Bulawayo.
Once completed, Gwayi-Shangani Dam is expected to significantly alleviate Bulawayo’s water shortage.
The project includes a 252km pipeline to Bulawayo and a 122km pipeline from the Zambezi River.
It is designed to support irrigation on up to 10 000 hectares of farmland and facilitate fish farming.
Additionally, the dam will host a 10 megawatt hydroelectric power station to boost energy supply in the region.
Authorities say the dam is a key part of broader efforts to enhance water security and drive economic development in Matabeleland.
