Published: 2 hours ago

Dubious tests conducted on the decommissioned Khami Dam have alleged that its water is safe for use, raising fears that the seriously poluted facility will be used as an alternative source for Bulawayo, which has long struggled with severe water shortages.

According to a recent Bulawayo City Council (BCC) report, laboratory results showed the water met safety standards, prompting renewed calls by councillors for its immediate use as a short-term measure to address the city's perennial crisis. The Director of Water and Sanitation, Engineer Sikhumbuzo Ncube, told the council that "tests proved that Khami water was clean and could be used as an alternative source of water for the city."

However, the proposal faces resistance from residents who remain unconvinced of the water's safety, citing the dam's history of pollution from industrial and sewage waste. The Town Clerk, Christopher Dube, acknowledged these concerns, urging council committees to promote the use of recycled water while citing international examples where treated wastewater is safely reused.

The Joint Portfolio Committee on Local Government and Sustainable Development Goals has given BCC until the end of the year to consider tapping into Khami Dam, stressing its potential to ease the city's water crisis if reclamation technology is applied.

Khami Dam, built in 1928, was decommissioned in 1988 after heavy contamination left it unsuitable for domestic use. Since then, the idea of recycling its water has surfaced repeatedly, including in 1996 when then city engineer George Mlilo proposed it, but the plan was consistently rejected by residents.

Despite the renewed push, public resistance persists, with many residents pointing to the dam's stagnant green water caused by algae growth as evidence it remains unsafe. The council has previously shelved such plans due to both costs and community opposition.

Meanwhile, BCC has revealed that it is reviewing its water shedding schedule, with a possibility of reducing rationing from the current 130 hours per week to 96 hours. The council stressed that this would only be feasible once ongoing projects are completed, warning that over-pumping from Umzingwane Dam could quickly deplete its reserves.

The city remains under pressure as dwindling supplies from its six main dams - Insiza, Mtshabezi, Umzingwane, Inyankuni, Lower Ncema and Upper Ncema - continue to strain water provision. For now, Khami Dam represents both a possible lifeline and a flashpoint in the city's battle to balance supply, safety and public trust.
- The Herald