Treasury releases US$1m for Kunzvi–Harare water pipeline as project gains momentum

Kunzvi Dam holding water

HARARE – Treasury has released an additional US$1 million towards the construction of the Kunzvi–Harare water pipeline, bringing total funding for the project to over US$4.18 million, officials have confirmed. The project, being implemented by the Zimbabwe National Water Authority, is a key component of efforts to address chronic water shortages in Harare.

ZINWA resident engineer Johanne Mwase said the latest funding injection has accelerated work on the ground.

“We have received US$1 million this year from the Treasury to continue with our operations. We have procured pipes for the next 3km, so at the moment we are at 9 percent completion,” Mwase said.

The 48-kilometre pipeline will transport raw water from Kunzvi Dam to a treatment plant to be constructed in Donnybrook, on the eastern outskirts of Harare.

Mwase said progress has improved significantly following the funding boost.

“We were at 2.5km before we received these funds. Per month, we will be laying 1km. About 5km of the pipeline route has been cleared and set out for excavation and pipe delivery on site,” he added.

Once complete, the pipeline is expected to deliver up to 240 megalitres of water per day, significantly improving supply to Harare residents and industries. The capital has long struggled with water shortages due to ageing infrastructure, population growth, and limited capacity at existing treatment plants. Urban planning experts say the Kunzvi project is critical to stabilising water supply in the medium to long term.

Meanwhile, construction of Kunzvi Dam itself is now about 70% complete and has already begun holding water. ZINWA corporate communications manager Marjorie Munyonga said parallel work is ongoing to address the social impact of the project.

Munyonga said relocation and compensation efforts are being implemented for families affected by the dam.

“So far, 144 houses have been constructed on the Murehwa side and 24 on the Goromonzi side,” she said.

The housing developments are part of a broader resettlement programme aimed at supporting displaced communities and ensuring a smooth transition.

With funding now increasing and construction advancing, authorities say the project is steadily moving toward becoming a major solution to Harare’s water crisis. However, analysts note that sustained financing and timely execution will be key to ensuring the pipeline delivers on its promise.

Kunzvi Harare water pipeline