On June 26, 2025, SADC-Groundwater Management Institute (SADC-GMI), in partnership with the Zimbabwe Government through the Ministry of Land, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, and the Zimbabwe National Water Authority (ZINWA) proudly commissioned a vital project to enhance groundwater monitoring and water supply at the Manika Land -Middle Sabi Alluvial Aquifer – a nationally strategic resource that extends partly into Mozambique.
This transformative initiative revitalized monitoring of this crucial aquifer, which had been hampered by aging infrastructure and limited resources.
This project isn’t just about providing water; it’s about building a foundation for sustainable resource management! By establishing a robust monitoring system, this initiative will enable both Mozambique and Zimbabwe to gain invaluable insights into their shared groundwater resource.
The data collected will be instrumental in making informed decisions, developing effective water management plans, and ensuring the long-term availability of this precious resource for generations to come. This collaborative approach underscores the importance of cross-border cooperation in addressing shared environmental challenges.
With real-time data and evidence-based planning, we’re moving towards a future where water resources are managed responsibly, equitably, and sustainably. This project exemplifies how strategic investments in monitoring and data collection can unlock the potential for informed decision-making and lasting positive change.
The project launch was a momentous occasion, graced by the presence of the SADC-GMI Team, esteemed officials from the Government of Zimbabwe, representatives from the Zimbabwe National Water Authority, local leadership, and enthusiastic members of the community.
In his opening remarks, SADC-GMI’s Executive Director, Eng. James Sauramba expressed sincere gratitude for the collaborative partnership that made the project a reality. He emphasized that without effective collaboration, this transformative initiative would not have been possible. Eng. Sauramba commended Zimbabwe for its outstanding efforts in successfully completing the project, which brings numerous benefits to the community of Middle Sabi.
The project involved delivering the following:- Redesigning an existing monitoring network
- Modernizing the groundwater monitoring system with a real-time telemetric system and data loggers installed in 9 boreholes
- Solarizing the Middle Sabi’s community water supply borehole with a 7KW solar system
- Training technical staff on the operation and maintenance of the system
- Zimbabwe National Water Authority (ZINWA) has already made 396 new water connections, benefiting a ward of 19700 residents
- Water supply has increased by 6 – 8 hours daily, in addition to the previous 6 hours (night only)
- A significant reduction in energy needs and costs, thanks to the solar-powered system
Jubilation in Middle Sabi! The community erupted in song and dance as the solarized borehole promises a future filled with water, hope, and prosperity!
Community Benefits:
Residents are already experiencing the positive ripple effects: increased water supply, thriving gardens, reduced food insecurity, improved nutrition, and increased income from selling surplus produce. Students are now able to attend school without spending hours per day fetching water. But the impact doesn’t stop there! This project has a transformative domino effect, touching water, energy, gender equality, education, hunger, poverty reduction, and climate change mitigation, directly aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals!
This transformative project, fuelled by the generous support of the Cooperation in International Waters in Africa (CIWA) and the Global Environment Facility (GEF), through the World Bank Group, is making a tangible difference in Manicaland-Middle Sabi!
Beyond providing clean water to households, this initiative is directly benefiting 11 local institutions, including primary and high schools, one vocational college and one local clinic. schools, ensuring healthier and more productive learning environments for students and improved healthcare services for the community.
But the impact doesn’t stop there! Recognizing the importance of livestock to the community’s livelihood, the project also includes a deep tank for cattle, providing a reliable source of water for these essential animals.This comprehensive approach demonstrates the project’s commitment to addressing the diverse needs of the community and building a more resilient future for all. By investing in water security, education, healthcare, and livestock, we’re creating a ripple effect of positive change that will be felt for generations to come!
Sustainable, Reliable, and Empowering: Middle-Sabi’s solar-powered water system is a game-changer, ensuring a constant flow of life-giving water, regardless of power cuts