Solar-powered boreholes provide relief for rural communities in Matabeleland

Rural communities in Matabeleland are increasingly turning to solar-powered boreholes as climate change disrupts rainfall patterns, worsening water scarcity across the region. For decades, villagers have relied on dams, rivers and shallow wells, which are often unsafe. People and livestock face serious risks when using these sources, and many communities far from municipal water networks lack access to clean and reliable water.

Chief Dakamela of Nkayi said they recently partnered with stakeholders to drill solar-powered boreholes as an alternative. “Although we have had a fairly good rainy season, we do not have enough dams or wells. We have therefore partnered with stakeholders to construct solar-powered boreholes to make water more accessible to our people,” he said.

He added that siltation had significantly reduced available water sources in the area. “Siltation has played a major role in reducing our water sources, so we are pushing for more boreholes to ensure everyone has access to safe drinking water,” he said. Villager Enock Ndlovu welcomed the initiative, describing the boreholes as a lasting solution to local water challenges.

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“We are thrilled to have these boreholes in our area and hope more will be installed across our villages so that everyone can access safe drinking water nearby,” he said. Solar-powered boreholes use solar energy to pump water, eliminating reliance on electricity from the national grid. They are expected to reduce dependence on unsafe water sources that can cause waterborne diseases and improve sanitation and hygiene, including through regular handwashing.

Reliable water sources are especially vital in rural Zimbabwe, where boreholes can support small-scale irrigation, boost food security and enable income-generating activities such as community gardens. Similar projects have been implemented elsewhere in the country. In Hwange, World Vision and government partners have installed at least 30 solar-powered water schemes to support households and livestock in drought-prone areas. In Buhera, the Presidential Boreholes Programme has installed over 100 to address community water challenges and support irrigation.

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