Over 80 percent of boreholes drilled under the Presidential Rural Development Programme by Prevail International are fully operational.
Launched in 2021, the scheme set a target of drilling 35,000 boreholes across the country. Its main objective is to uplift living standards in rural communities by providing clean water for domestic use and agricultural purposes such as horticulture — with the hope that, over time, this will expand into commercial production.
Prevail International Communications Manager, Ms. Tariro Dondo, told Hurumende News Hub that beneficiaries of the scheme in several provinces have successfully empowered themselves through the establishment of thriving Village Business Units and School Business Units, made possible by the PBDS.
She said thousands of people, the majority of them in rural areas, now have access to clean water.
“Over the years we have recorded success stories under the Presidential Borehole Scheme. We are yielding positive results.
Thousands of boreholes drilled by Prevail under the PBS are functional, and communities across the country have benefited — thanks to His Excellency, the President.
We have families that are eking a living out of these water sources,” said Ms. Dondo.
She acknowledged that her office was aware of media reports alleging that some boreholes are not operational and assured that the matter is under active review.
“If there are water sources that are currently not operating at full capacity, we will look into that.
Our records indicate that the majority of boreholes drilled under the scheme are functional.
For the alleged non-functional boreholes, we are actively reviewing the matter and will take the necessary measures to ensure they are restored to full working capacity.
“There are several issues that could affect borehole functionality, and Prevail International is mapping a way forward to address these challenges,” she added.
The programme aims to drill 35,000 boreholes across the country’s 35,000 villages, providing clean water for domestic use and horticulture. The project also involves installing solar-powered boreholes, 10,000-litre storage tanks, and four potable water taps in each village.
The scheme has already brought relief to communities in Chipinge, Chimanimani, and other arid areas, significantly improving health, hygiene, and food security.