The commissioning of the Holy Cross Dam in Chirumhanzu District, Midlands Province, marks a significant milestone in regional development, promising substantial benefits for the local community. President Emmerson Mnangagwa officially opened the dam, a pivotal project funded through devolution and part of the Second Republic’s broader infrastructural and agro-development strategy.
The Holy Cross Dam is more than just a water reservoir; it is a cornerstone of the Community Transformation Model. Alongside the dam, several agro-innovation projects are set to transform the region. These projects include an irrigation scheme, fisheries, and an eco-tourism initiative, all designed to enhance the livelihoods of the Chirumhanzu community and the wider Midlands province.
A key component of this development is the establishment of an industrial park dedicated to processing and adding value to crops produced from the dam’s irrigation scheme. This initiative is expected to create numerous employment opportunities, driving economic growth and industrialisation in the area. The dam also supports the Heritage-Based Education 5.0 model, where tertiary institutions will collaborate with local schools and communities to produce raw materials and advance rural industrialisation.
These developments come at a crucial time when the El-Nino drought has impacted agriculture and water availability in the region. The Holy Cross Dam not only provides a critical resource for irrigation but also aids in mitigating the adverse effects of the drought by supporting local agriculture and improving water access for both people and livestock.
This project follows the recent completion of the 91-meter Dombwe Bridge in Shurugwi, also funded through devolution, which has enhanced connectivity and access to essential services. The successful implementation of these projects reflects the Second Republic’s commitment to driving regional development and improving community well-being through strategic infrastructure investments.
The continued focus on infrastructure and agro-innovation is expected to further the Midlands Province’s reputation for progress and set a precedent for future community-focused development projects across Zimbabwe. The Holy Cross Dam stands as a testament to the positive impact of well-coordinated development efforts, promising a brighter and more prosperous future for the region.
