FAO rehabilitates 39 boreholes in Chipinge

THE Food and Agriculture Organisation in conjunction with Government departments is targeting to rehabilitate 39 boreholes for communities experiencing acute water shortages in Chipinge District.

A check by The Manica Post recently revealed that FAO has already mobilised resources and equipment which is now being distributed to intended wards.

The programme will target wards three, five, 16, 20, 26, 27, 29 and 30 which are among areas that experience perennial water shortages.

Of the 39 boreholes to be rehabilitated, five will be solar powered.

Chipinge District Water and Sanitation Sub-Committee chairperson, Mr Isaac Sundawo, confirmed the development and said work to rehabilitate boreholes in Chipinge District would resume this month.

“Yes, I can confirm that FAO has already availed equipment worth thousands of to rehabilitate damaged boreholes,” he said.

“The equipment donated is being kept at Kondo Station awaiting disbursement to the intended areas.

“We will distribute the borehole equipment according to how the area is affected. This programme is being implemented by FAO and also involves Government departments as implementing agents,” said Mr Sundawo.

The equipment includes 748 galvanised pipes, 34 bush pumps, 34 bush pumps heads and 300 bags of cement for the construction of water drinking troughs.

“Once the programme kicks-off we are expected to employ over 50 people. This will benefit thousands of families,” he said.

“According to information at Chipinge District Development Fund offices, we have 1 226 boreholes which are not functional. Many families are affected by acute water shortages because of the prevailing situation.

“Yes, we receive resources here and there, but they are not enough since we have many boreholes which require special maintenance,” he added.