Key Points
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Water scarcity is worsening human-wildlife conflicts in rural Zimbabwe.
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Women and children are especially vulnerable in this crisis.
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Urgent action is needed to improve water access and ensure safety in rural areas.
In Nyaminyami Rural District, located in Zimbabwe, a severe water crisis is making life difficult for residents. Villagers, especially in areas like Manyovhe, under Chief Negande, are forced to travel up to five kilometers to fetch water from rivers.
These rivers are shared with both domestic animals and wildlife, which leads to frequent and dangerous human-wildlife conflicts.
Local Concerns and Challenges
Brian Ncube, the Ward 5 councillor, shared his concerns: “In some areas, clean water is as valuable as diamonds.” Villages like Gumpa, Makuyu fishing camp, and Kasawi are particularly impacted, with residents walking long distances to fetch water from dug wells.
This adds significant hardship to their daily lives, and the situation is worsened by the constant risk of encountering wildlife such as elephants, jackals, and lions.
The water sources, located near wildlife-protected areas, heighten the dangers. Villagers often set out early in the morning, and at times, they don’t return home until late, risking dangerous wildlife encounters. The water scarcity is not just about access, but also the safety of those collecting it.
World Water Day Raises Awareness
On World Water Day, activists and organizations raised their concerns. Precious Shumba, director of the Harare Residents Trust, criticized the Harare City Council for privatizing water through the introduction of prepaid meters.
She emphasized that women and girls bear the brunt of this crisis, spending hours collecting water, often under dangerous circumstances.
Mutsa Murombedzi, a Proportional Representative from Mashonaland West, called on the government to take immediate action. She highlighted that millions of Zimbabweans, particularly those in rural areas, still lack access to safe water.
She urged the government to invest in sustainable water solutions, adopt water conservation policies, and address the climate change impacts that are worsening the crisis.
Government Response and Future Steps
In response, Speaker of the National Assembly Jacob Mudenda acknowledged the government’s ongoing efforts, such as providing solar-powered boreholes and nutrition gardens, but emphasized the need for further progress.
