By Wallace Mawire
A partnership between the Government of Zimbabwe, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and the UK Government’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) is transforming lives in Binga through improved access to clean water and renewable energy, restoring dignity, strengthening health services, and improving learning conditions across the district.Through the Climate Adaptation, Water and Energy Programme (CAWEP), the long-neglected 65-kilometre ZINWA water pipeline in Binga has been rehabilitated, restoring reliable piped water to thousands of households, clinics, schools, and public institutions for the first time in decades.
At Siansundu Rural Health Centre, the return of running water has transformed maternal healthcare. Previously, nurses were forced to fetch water from distant boreholes, and women in labour were asked to bring their own water. Maintaining hygiene during childbirth was extremely difficult, increasing infection risks and placing mothers and newborns in danger.
“In the labour ward, water is essential for cleaning, sanitation, and infection control. Now we can safely conduct deliveries and maintain hygiene for both staff and patients. It has changed everything,” said Mr. Gideon Muzamba, Nurse-in-Charge at Siansundu Rural Health Centre.
Running water is now available throughout the facility, improving infection prevention and control, reducing delays in care, and strengthening the safe administration of medicines for vulnerable patients.
The intervention is also transforming education. Ten schools connected to the upgraded system now benefit from clean water and solar energy, improving sanitation, health, and the overall learning environment.
“For the first time, learners and teachers have access to clean drinking water at school. Sanitation has improved and the learning environment is now healthier,” said Leonard Mudenda, School Development Committee Chairperson at Bunsiwa Primary School in Siachilaba.
In one of Zimbabwe’s most climate-vulnerable districts, the combined investment in water and renewable energy is helping communities withstand climate shocks while improving essential services.
Where mothers once gave birth under extremely difficult conditions, they now deliver safely. Where children once walked long distances to fetch water, they now learn in clean and healthy environments. Where communities once relied on unsafe and distant water sources, they now have reliable water and power.
This partnership demonstrates how integrated investments in water, energy, and public services can strengthen community resilience, improve health outcomes, and restore dignity for rural communities.
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) works in about 170 countries and territories, helping to achieve the eradication of poverty and the reduction of inequalities and exclusion. In Zimbabwe, UNDP supports national efforts to achieve sustainable development through initiatives focused on climate resilience, governance, health, and sustainable livelihoods.
