Lubimbi villagers demand answers on relocation as Gwayi-Shangani Dam nears completion
Thembelihle Mhlanga
Lubimbi, Binga – Lubimbi villagers in Binga District have expressed growing frustration over the government’s alleged silence on relocation plans as the Gwayi-Shangani Dam project approaches 70 percent completion.
The community, fearing displacement without adequate support, held a dialogue this week to voice their concerns, highlighting the lack of transparency and communication from authorities.
“The government has left us in a lurch,” said Tongai Ncube, a community leader. “Their silence suggests our grassroots representatives are not conveying our issues to the president. We deserve to know what will happen to us.”
The Gwayi-Shangani Dam, designed to enhance irrigation and water supply in the region, has been a double-edged sword for Lubimbi residents. While it promises long-term benefits, villagers worry about being uprooted without clear plans for their resettlement or livelihoods.
Success Munkuli, a youth representative, criticized the government’s inaction. “We’ve written to Parliament and the Minister of Finance requesting relocation funds, but only received allocations for the dam’s construction. It feels like our lives and homes don’t matter,” she said.
The community’s frustration has escalated to the point of direct action. Villagers plan to confront their local chief, who has been conspicuously absent from recent meetings. “We need our chief to actively participate in this struggle,” Ncube emphasized. “His silence only deepens our frustration.”
Mary Ndlovu, a local farmer, stressed the urgency of the situation. “Our survival depends on this land. If we’re relocated, we need guarantees of adequate support to rebuild our lives,” she said. John Moyo, another resident, echoed her concerns, adding, “Development shouldn’t come at the cost of ignoring those who will be displaced. We support progress, but our voices must be heard.”
As the dam project advances, the lack of clarity from the government has left Lubimbi villagers in limbo. They are calling for immediate intervention to address their relocation needs and ensure their rights are protected.
The Ministry of Finance is reportedly yet to respond to the community’s specific concerns, leaving villagers to hope their pleas will eventually reach the right ears. For now, the people of Lubimbi remain steadfast in their fight for transparency and justice, determined to secure a future that respects their dignity and livelihoods.
