VICTORIA Falls is on the cusp of a significant boost to its water infrastructure, as the first phase of the US$4,5 million Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (Wash) project reaches 87 percent completion.
A key component of this initial stage, one of the project’s reservoirs, is undergoing final testing and is scheduled to be fully operational by mid-May.
This initiative marks a significant step in addressing the city’s long-standing water supply challenges and comprises the construction of two reservoirs, a 12-kilometre pipeline and pump stations.
Completed pump station
Speaking to Zimpapers at the construction site on Wednesday, Victoria Falls City Director of Engineering Services, Engineer Sherinah Sibanda, confirmed that the newly completed 0,75-megalitre elevated tank is now leak-free and undergoing final checks.
“We are constructing two reservoirs; one ground reservoir with a capacity of 10 megalitres, and an elevated tank of 0,75 megalitres. The elevated tank has now been completed and is being tested. We’ve pumped water into it and confirmed there are no leaks,” she said.
She said that the 12-kilometre pipeline is also being reconfigured to shift from direct pumping to gravity-fed supply, which will enhance efficiency and reliability.
“We are currently testing the pipeline and have identified one leak, which we are in the process of repairing. Once resolved, we will begin supplying residents using the elevated tank by May 15,” said Engineer Sibanda.
Pumping via the elevated tank is expected to resolve persistent low-pressure issues in Mkhosana and surrounding suburbs.
Engineer Sibanda noted that work on the larger 10-megalitre ground reservoir is progressing steadily, with the floor completed and the construction of the sides underway.
She expressed confidence that both reservoirs, along with the full pipeline system, will be operational by June 30.
“This development will significantly improve water pressure for residents. Those in Mkhosana have previously relied on direct pumping, which led to inconsistent supply. Now, with a pressurised system, everyone will receive water more reliably. By mid-May, we expect to have completed the elevated tank, and the entire project is targeted for completion by June 30,” she said.
Once completed, the project is expected to benefit approximately 50 percent of Victoria Falls’ population, particularly residents in Mkhosana, Aerodrome and low-density areas such as BP7.
“It’s not just the reservoirs; the pump station is also complete. We’ve installed pipelines, valves, and other associated infrastructure, which will be finalised once the ground reservoir is done. We estimate the project is 87 percent complete, as the major works have already been done.”
The upgrade is particularly important for Mkhosana residents, who have long faced low pressure and erratic water supply, especially during power outages.
With the new system, adequate reserves will be stored in the reservoirs to ensure continued access even during blackouts.
Mr Mandla Sibindi, Secretary-General of the Progressive Victoria Falls Residents Association, welcomed the progress.
“We’re relieved that the first tank is complete and undergoing tests. This project is a lifeline for Mkhosana, where water shortages were a major issue. We hope it brings sustainable solutions, even during electricity cuts,” said Mr Sibindi.
With the elevated tank expected to be operational by mid-May and the ground reservoir on track for completion shortly thereafter, authorities aim to finalise all pipeline connections and valves by the end of June.
The project, funded by the local authority, is part of broader efforts to strengthen water security in the tourism-driven city of Victoria Falls.
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