MASVINGO — The European Union (EU) is funding a four-year water, sanitation and hygiene project in Chivi district that would see 50 boreholes drilled and over 350 repaired.Report by Tatenda Chitagu
The project, dubbed “CHIWASH” (Chivi, water, sanitation and hygiene) would be implemented by the Zimbabwe Red Cross Society (ZRCS) at a cost of over US$3,2 million.
The project also involves the construction of 3 400 latrines in the district. ZRCS acting secretary-general, Lucky Goteka told reporters at a handover ceremony of 180 bicycles to community health and hygiene promoters at Maringire business centre last week that the programme was part of the nationwide humanitarian effort to promote the quality of life in vulnerable communities.
“The ZRCS is currently implementing integrated humanitarian programmes that provide a holistic approach to the diverse humanitarian needs of the vulnerable groups,” said Goteka. “This integrated project is both emergency and developmental, so that while addressing current challenges, it also incapacitates communities to develop community-based solutions to their everyday challenges.”
A total of 100 000 people in 400 communities in Chivi district, mainly vulnerable groups such as people living with HIV, orphans and single-parent households, would be targeted. Goteka said Chivi district was chosen because of its poor sanitation.
“As an impartial, neutral and independent voluntary humanitarian organisation, we are there to complement government efforts in saving lives and alleviating human suffering wherever it may be and however it is caused,” he said.
