By Tinotenda Hove
Residents of ward 23 in Chivi South constituency are expressing concerns and fear over the potential construction of the Tende-Runde dam, which could lead to their displacement. The memories of the Tugwi-Mukosi dam relocations, where villagers were forced to leave their homes and relocate to Chingwizi Camp, are still fresh in their minds. The proposed dam is located less than 20 km southwest of Tugwi-Mukosi dam, increasing worries among the affected villagers.
The resurfacing and grading of a long-abandoned road leading to the site of the dam wall have intensified the villagers’ anxieties. The road connects the dam wall site to the main Beitbridge highway, signaling potential changes in their lives and a possible relocation from their ancestral lands.
According to government statistics, the Tende-Runde dam is expected to be approximately two and a half times larger than Tugwi-Mukosi, with a capacity of 1.8 billion cubic meters and stretching over 40 km. The estimated cost for its construction is around US$400 million, and the dam wall is projected to reach a height of 90 meters.
Masvingo Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Ezra Chadzamira, confirmed the government’s plans to construct the dam as part of its National Development Strategy (NDS1). However, he emphasized that prior consultations with affected communities and stakeholders would be conducted before commencing construction.
Chadzamira assured the villagers that all necessary procedures, including community engagement and stakeholder consultations, would be followed. He acknowledged that the feasibility study for the dam had been conducted earlier, and the government is committed to adhering to the required processes leading to the dam’s construction.
While some government officials attempt to allay the fears, villagers remain anxious. The traumatic experiences of those previously displaced by the Tugwi-Mukosi dam and the subsequent neglect they faced after relocation have left deep scars. Concerns about compensation and the logic of having two large dams in the same area further contribute to the apprehension among the residents.
One elderly widow expressed her worries, highlighting the physical challenges she would face if forced to rebuild her life elsewhere. Another villager expressed fears of being abandoned and neglected, similar to the previous displacement incident. However, one resident seemed optimistic about the potential compensation and boasted about the financial gain they might receive.
Educational psychologist Dr. Munyaradzi Chidarikire suggested that the government should promptly provide counseling services to the affected communities to help them prepare psychologically for potential relocation.
The construction of the Tende-Runde dam is part of the government’s development plans outlined in the NDS1, which is scheduled to be completed by 2025. The project aims to follow the necessary procedures and engage with communities and stakeholders. As the construction progresses, the government will communicate with the villagers to address any concerns and provide clarity regarding the relocation process.
As the residents of ward 23 in Chivi South constituency grapple with the looming construction of the Tende-Runde dam, uncertainties persist regarding their future and the potential displacement from their ancestral lands.
