By Admore Mbonda recently in Guruve
Villagers in Guruve are facing a severe water crisis as the ongoing drought, amplified by climate change, has led to the drying up of most rivers and boreholes in the area.
The once-reliable Mpinge River is among those that have succumbed to the relentless dry spell, leaving locals desperate for water.
Residents interviewed by this publication revealed that they are now forced to dig underground in sandy riverbeds to find water that is still wet.
“We are struggling to get water for our daily needs. The boreholes have dried up, and the rivers are empty,” lamented one villager, Mrs Stella Mandi.
Recent visits to the area confirmed that the community borehole has ceased to function, highlighting the urgent need for sustainable water sources.
The crisis comes in the wake of Zimbabwe, along with several Southern African Development Community (SADC) countries, declaring an El Niño-induced drought a State of Disaster. This declaration follows disrupted rainfall patterns that have resulted in minimal precipitation during the 2023/24 rainy season.
The consequences of the water shortage extend beyond mere inconvenience. The lack of accessible water is placing immense pressure on women and girls, who are traditionally responsible for fetching water for their households.
“We walk long distances to find water, and this exposes us to risks, including abuse,” said a local woman. “We need safe water sources closer to our homes.”
Local chief, Chief Bepura, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of protecting vulnerable groups.
“This water crisis is not just a matter of inconvenience; it is a matter of life and death. We must ensure that our women and girls are safe and have access to clean water,” he said.
He also called for urgent governmental and non-governmental intervention to address the crisis.
The drying up of water bodies has also had dire implications for livestock and wildlife, further straining the community.
Many boreholes that still have some water are frequently breaking down due to overuse, as they are tasked with supplying water for both people and animals.
The inadequate water supply has serious repercussions for menstrual hygiene management, significantly affecting girls’ school attendance.
“When there’s no water, we struggle to keep clean, and sometimes we miss school,” explained a young student. In some cases, girls are compelled to drop out of school to help their families in the search for water.
Additionally, subsistence farming and gardening—crucial for the sustenance of many families—are severely hampered by the water shortage.
Women, who often rely on these activities for their livelihoods, are left with dwindling prospects.
As the community grapples with this crisis, the need for immediate action is clear. Sustainable solutions are essential to ensure that the people of Guruve can access the water they need to survive and thrive in an increasingly challenging environment.
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