Youth quenching Zim’s thirst for clean water
THE Second Republic has identified the provision of clean water to Zimbabweans countrywide as key to the country’s aspirations to transform into an upper middle-income economy by 2030.
Over the last four years, the Government has embarked on an expansive water provision programme geared to facilitate access to the life-sustaining liquid.
The Presidential Borehole Drilling Programme has since brought relief to many communities countrywide that had for years struggled with accessing clean water.
It has ensured that most communities achieve their developmental aspirations by accessing and using the resource for domestic consumption and small agricultural enterprises.
Inspired by this transformative programme, one youthful entrepreneur is playing his small, yet vital, part in complementing Government’s efforts.
Willard Chirunga (34) has done more than many of his peers can ever dream of achieving in facilitating access to water in rural communities.
The youthful entrepreneur — who hails from Seke Rural — is responsible for opening up hundreds of boreholes that have supported agricultural enterprises and homes struggling with access to clean water.
Over the last three years, he has slowly made his mark in an industry that was previously dominated by large enterprises with deep pockets.
He used his meagre savings to set up an enterprise from the ground going up through sheer resilience, determination and zeal for development.
His company, Lard Engineering, has made its mark in many farming communities.
The small enterprise has drilled boreholes in areas like Mutare, Rusape, Headlands, Gokwe, Kwekwe, Gweru, Zvishavane, Gwanda, Beitbridge and Bulawayo.
He has covered parts of Mashonaland East and Mashonaland Central provinces.
In an interview with The Sunday Mail, Chirunga said he was reaping the rewards of Government’s drive to empower youths through supporting their enterprises.
“Access to clean water is a basic human right and, as such, we applaud President Mnangagwa for prioritising this area,” said Chirunga.
“I have been in the field drilling boreholes in various communities and I have noticed that people are appreciative.”
A firm believer in community development, Chirunga reckons the Second Republic has done exceptionally well in terms of empowering youths.
Chirunga — who holds a Master’s Degree in Finance and Investment — said he decided to give up a life of swanky slim-fit suits and ties for baggy overalls and work suits in pursuit of his dream of becoming his own employer.
He said he was eager to participate in Government-led developmental programmes that facilitate access to water.
Presently, he employs 23 local youths on a full-time basis, while around 30 others work on a part-time basis.
He said he plans to expand his enterprise as it slowly gains traction in areas where it has drilled boreholes.
He hailed President Mnangagwa for initiating the borehole drilling scheme, saying he was confident that the Second Republic will ensure universal access to clean water.
“ZANU PF’s position with regards to black empowerment is clear; its rich history in the fight for black emancipation is well documented, and the current work being undertaken by the party to ensure empowerment of young people is not surprising.
“So as a youth who wants development, I am left with no option, but to join the bandwagon,” said Chirunga.
He is convinced that the Second Republic will continue ushering a new era of enhanced youth participation in development through enterprise.
“Most youths are now getting into economic spaces that were never open to young people before,” he said.
“Today, we have youths that are doing very well in different business sectors such as mining, agriculture and construction.
“Lard Engineering is a company that we formed during the Second Republic and it’s a clear testimony that the ship has the right captain and it is sailing in the right direction.
“There are a lot of opportunities being presented by the ruling party and that is the reason why ZANU PF is always winning elections.
“People want empowerment and development and they see that in the ruling party.”
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