Innocent Ruwende and Ropafadzo Ndangariro
Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with a local company Tawana Power Corporation to kick-start the $3,7 billion Kondo and Chitova Dam projects in Middle Sabi. Tawana Power will mobilise funds required for the two projects after carrying out feasibility studies.

The projects involve the construction of concrete-faced rock fill dams, earth fill saddle dams and hydro-power generating plants.

It is envisaged that upon completion, Kondo Dam will surpass Tugwi-Mukosi as the largest man made inland dam in the country with water for power generation and irrigation development in the Chisumbanje area, which lies in the south eastern part of the country.

The dams will have the potential to generate 200MW and have high eco-tourism potential.
Speaking at the signing ceremony Environment, Water and Climate permanent secretary Ambassador Grace Mutandirwo said the dams will be real game changers for the region.

“You were informed of the multiple benefits that would ensue once the dam is completed . . . This really has a huge potential to change the socio economic environment in that area,” she said.

“We are demonstrating to the world, to other Zimbabweans that indeed Government is committed to develop in the water infrastructure. Climate change is real we have seen it and the nexus between climate change and water really needs no elaboration, without water there’s very little we can do to sustain life.”

Tawana Power Corporation executive chairperson, Mr George Mushambi said his company was humbled by the level of confidence shown by Government by way of affording the company a rare opportunity to lead in the implementation of the project.

“We can never thank our Government enough for such an opportunity to participate in a major impact infrastructure project that will change the complexion of Zimbabwe socio economic landscape,” he said.