A puzzling development in Makwe North, Matabeleland South Province, has left the community divided after Ekhaya Kip Keino Children’s Home declined a free borehole offered by Lungisani Twominutes Ncube, the Director of Makwe 34 Mining Claims and ZANU-PF shadow MP. The refusal of such a critical resource amidst an unrelenting drought has sparked widespread debate, with many questioning the motives behind this decision.
The $6,800 borehole, fully funded by Ncube and equipped with materials sourced from Bulawayo, was part of his broader efforts to alleviate the chronic water shortages plaguing the region. “After traveling over 187 kilometers, we were turned back without any clear explanation,” said a visibly disappointed Ncube. “This was a chance to address urgent water needs, especially for orphans, and the refusal is deeply disheartening.”
The borehole initiative is just one among many projects Ncube has championed in Matabeleland South Province. Over the years, he has undertaken numerous community development efforts designed to uplift rural residents and address key infrastructural deficits.
Understanding the water scarcity challenges in the region, Ncube has drilled several boreholes across Makwe to support local communities struggling with access to clean water. In addition to the proposed borehole for Ekhaya Kip Keino Children’s Home, he has financed dam scooping projects, investing $10,000 in hiring earth-moving equipment to enhance water retention capacity in the Makwe area.
He has also donated irrigation pumps and piping to small-scale farmers, enabling them to sustain agricultural activities despite the harsh climatic conditions. These initiatives have been lauded as vital in strengthening food security and empowering local farmers to achieve self-sufficiency.
Ncube has prioritized economic empowerment for the Makwe community. He donated 18 hammer mills, each worth $1,500, totaling $27,000. These mills have reduced transportation costs and increased productivity for farmers, who previously relied on external facilities for milling grain.
In addition to agricultural and water projects, Ncube has contributed to educational infrastructure in the region. At Makwe Secondary School, he facilitated the installation of a JoJo tank, a submissive pump, and 40mm piping to ensure reliable water access for the students and staff. This project cost $2,700 and was instrumental in improving the school’s water supply system.
While Ncube’s efforts have significantly benefited the community, his latest setback raises concerns about political interference in development initiatives. Local residents suspect deliberate sabotage by individuals opposed to his work, possibly for political gain.
“This is clearly the work of people who do not want development in our region. It’s disappointing to see individuals placing political interests above the welfare of the community,” said one resident. Another community member expressed frustration, stating, “Refusing a free borehole during a drought is not just unfortunate; it’s a grave injustice to the orphans who depend on this resource for survival.”
Ncube, however, remains steadfast. “This isn’t about politics; it’s about service to the people. Water is a basic human right, and I will continue to support initiatives that improve livelihoods,” he said.
The refusal of the borehole comes at a time when Matabeleland South is grappling with severe water shortages, worsened by the El Niño-induced drought. Over 60% of rural households in the province lack access to clean, reliable water sources. Boreholes have proven to be a lifeline, providing much-needed relief to communities for drinking, sanitation, and agriculture.
Ekhaya Kip Keino Children’s Home, which declined the borehole, cares for vulnerable children who require consistent access to clean water. The decision has left many questioning the rationale behind rejecting such an essential resource, especially given the dire circumstances.
Ncube’s community development projects align with President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s Vision 2030, which aims to transform Zimbabwe into an upper-middle-income economy. Central to this vision is the prioritization of rural development and the provision of basic services like clean water, education, and agricultural support.
By investing in infrastructure and economic empowerment, Ncube’s initiatives contribute to national goals of improving living standards, reducing poverty, and fostering community resilience. However, the political divisions evident in incidents like the borehole refusal threaten to derail progress.
As the borehole equipment is returned to Bulawayo, the community is left to reflect on the implications of the rejection. For Ncube, the incident is a call to continue his efforts despite setbacks. “We must put our differences aside and work towards the common good. Development should never be politicized,” he remarked.
For the children of Ekhaya Kip Keino and the broader Makwe community, the loss of the borehole is a stark reminder of the challenges of achieving progress in a polarized environment. In the face of worsening drought and water shortages, cooperation among stakeholders is more crucial than ever.
This incident underscores the need for unity in addressing community challenges. Sustainable development requires collaboration, not division, and a focus on long-term solutions to pressing issues like water scarcity.
As Matabeleland South continues to battle the effects of climate change and limited resources, leaders like Ncube play a pivotal role in bridging gaps and ensuring that no one is left behind. While political differences may persist, the ultimate goal should remain clear: to uplift the community and secure a brighter future for all.
