A CAMPAIGN code named “Give a Dam” has been initiated in Matabeleland to promote the construction, rehabilitation of small dams and irrigation schemes in rural areas.

By Melody Chimhau

The campaign is a joint collaboration between local communities, district councils, government, non-governmental organisations and international aid agencies.

It is estimated that there are 1650 dams in Matabeleland but most of them are no longer functional.

Speaking at a Climate Change Forum on Wednesday, climate specialist Peter Velde said Matabeleland was in need of more dams as it was the driest region in Zimbabwe.

“Dams are a vehicle and catalyst for development. A new campaign is being initiated in Matabeleland and it’s called “Give a dam campaign”.

“The programme is being implemented in Matabeleland because from our researches we have seen that this region especially in the rural areas they are having challenges of water,” Velde said.

The project will ensure that each district has a dam and irrigation projects are established to assist the rural farmers in productivity.

“In Matabeleland dams are crucial assets for man and animals and most of the dams in this region are no longer functional because of lack of maintenance,” he said.

“We must not blame communities for the poor state of dams because they are involved in the construction.

“Authorities should continue to maintain the dams and communities get clean, safe water at the end of the day.”

Velde said there was very little investment towards construction of dams.

The Give a Dam Campaign has resulted in the construction of 45 dams in some parts of Zimbabwe.

Bulawayo South Member of Parliament Eddie Cross said there was lack of cooperation in climate change issues.

“It is sad to know that Matabeleland is ranked the worst region affected by climate change in the country,” he said.

“People should be given property ownership to reduce or avoid situations where they go around destroying the natural resources.”

Cross accused city councils of poor planning when it came to building of dams.

“Our councils have failed to plan properly and it’s been years without any action in terms of dams construction and maintenance. There is too much talking and no action being implemented”, he said