Chief Bunina, Councillors sound alarm on siltation menace caused by illegal settlers
By Dumisani Ndlovu
Chief Bunina, born Jabulani Chisadza, has raised alarm over the severe siltation affecting Lower Gweru, blaming illegal settlers for the environmental degradation. The traditional leader expressed optimism that the masterplan being implemented by Vungu Rural District Council will address the long-standing issues of siltation and water scarcity.
According to Chief Bunina, the illegal settlers have been causing harm to the environment by ploughing along the slopes, leading to massive siltation and severe water scarcity.
“We have endured siltation and water scarcity for far too long, and it’s time for bold action to tackle these issues once and for all. The root of the problem lies with illegal settlers who cultivate on steep slopes, causing massive siltation and severe water shortages,” Chief Bunina emphasized.
The chief expressed his belief that the masterplan will be a game-changer for the Vungu Rural District areas, bringing much-needed solutions to the problems plaguing the community. With the masterplan in place, Chief Bunina hopes that the district will finally overcome the challenges of siltation and water scarcity, paving the way for a brighter future for his people.
Ward 16 Councillor MacMillan Bhepe lamented the scarcity of dams in his area, noting that the only two dams available are severely affected by siltation. As a result, he said villagers are forced to travel long distances to access water.
Women’s Quota Councillor Enesta Nhongo shared her concerns, noting that the limited number of dams cater to a large area, including Summerset and Kitchen Buck. She stressed the importance of regular desilting of the Londone dam to ensure optimal water supply. While acknowledging the challenges, Councillor Nhongo expressed hope that the masterplan will provide a lasting solution to the community’s water struggles.
The masterplans for Gweru Urban and Vungu Rural District Councils were led by a team from Midlands State University (MSU), comprising Professor Kadmiel Wekwete as the lead planner, Dr. Charles Paradzayi heading the GSI Section, Tanya Moyo as a researcher and Takudzwanashe Mawheni .
Dr. Paradzayi explained that the masterplans aim to enhance local authorities’ capabilities in providing essential services and resources like water and electricity.
He stressed the importance of collaboration among ministries, central government, local authorities, and stakeholders to effectively collect taxes, mobilize resources, and implement corporate social responsibility programs.
“This collective effort is essential for the successful implementation of the devolution framework and to ensure that resources are utilized efficiently to benefit the community,” said Dr Paradzayi.
