Water scarcity continues to be a pressing issue for communities in Chitungwiza, posing significant challenges, particularly for women and girls. Despite 43 years of independence, access to clean and reliable water remains elusive, a fundamental right outlined in Section 77 of the Zimbabwean Constitution. Recognizing the urgency of this crisis, Sprout Women Empowerment Trust (SWET) has embarked on the Give Life to Muda Dam initiative, advocating for sustainable solutions to alleviate the water burden on residents.

Muda Dam stands as a beacon of hope, offering the promise of improved access to water for the people of Chitungwiza. The initiative seeks to realize Sustainable Development Goal 6, ensuring clean water and sanitation for all. To advance this cause, SWET, in collaboration with Action Aid Zimbabwe, Activista Chitungwiza, and Global Platforms, convened the #GiveLife2MudaDam Stakeholders Meeting on October 28, 2022.

The meeting, held at Chitungwiza Publicity, brought together over 50 participants from various community clusters, including representatives from Chitungwiza Municipality, trained water committees, media outlets, partner organizations, and community members. Key stakeholders, including the Public Relations Officer of Chitungwiza Municipality, Mr. Meya, and councilors, provided invaluable insights and updates on the status of the Muda Dam project.

Central to the discussions was the urgent need for collective action to advocate for the realization of the Muda Dam project. Participants emphasized the inefficiency of boreholes and highlighted the detrimental impact of water scarcity, which enables water barons to exploit the situation. The shift of financial responsibility for the dam from the municipality to the central government was seen as a positive step, but clarity was sought regarding the allocation of funds from the national budget.

Moving forward, stakeholders underscored the importance of utilizing social media to amplify the #GiveLife2MudaDam campaign and garner widespread support. Furthermore, there was a call for concerted efforts to engage members of parliament and ensure that the Muda Dam project receives the necessary attention and resources in the national budget allocation for 2023.

The #GiveLife2MudaDam initiative represents a collaborative endeavor to address the water crisis in Chitungwiza, with a focus on collective advocacy, community engagement, and sustainable solutions. As we continue our efforts to give life to Muda Dam, we remain committed to realizing the fundamental right to access clean water for all residents of Chitungwiza.