In the heart of Rural Nyanga North, where the mountains kissed the sky and the sun painted the landscape in warm hues, the community of Kadzere faced a pressing challenge: water scarcity. The once-abundant rivers and streams that flowed through their valleys had dwindled, leaving families struggling to secure this vital resource. Yet, hope was on the horizon.
During the months of December 2024 and January 2025, the Manica Youth Assembly (MAYA) undertook a significant journey to Kadzere which was supported by Peace SOS. The organization, known for its commitment to empowering communities, aimed to help the local residents tackle their water woes through innovative techniques. Their arrival was met with eager anticipation, and over 50 members of the community gathered for a pivotal meeting.
As the sun began to set behind the mountains, casting a golden glow over the assembled crowd, Jussa Kudherezera took the stage. The Director of MAYA, a passionate advocate for sustainable practices, Jussa introduced the community to the concept of water harvesting. With a warm smile, he spoke about how these techniques could alleviate their over-reliance on distant water sources, reduce the risk of waterborne diseases, and enhance food security through irrigation.
The atmosphere was electric with curiosity. The community members listened intently as Jussa and his team explained various water harvesting methods, such as rooftop rainwater harvesting, ground-level rainwater collection, and even fog collection, amongst others. With every new idea shared, the residents began to see a glimmer of hope; these techniques could transform their struggle into a story of resilience.
Questions flew from all corners of the gathering. Residents eagerly shared their experiences, recounting hardships faced during dry seasons and dreams of greener gardens. The discussion that unfolded was vibrant and spirited, showcasing the collective concern of a community desperate for change.
To empower the residents further, MAYA provided essential knowledge and tools for constructing their water harvesting systems. The enthusiasm in the air was palpable as people began discussing plans for implementation in their homes. The technical assistance offered by MAYA promised continued support, ensuring that these systems would not only be built but also maintained.
As the meeting concluded, it was clear that the Nyanga community was determined to embrace these new practices. Their excitement signaled a shift, a transition from despair to action. With renewed vigor, they expressed the need for more support from the government to construct dams, reservoirs, and tanks that could increase their water storage capacity – an essential step in safeguarding their future against unpredictable weather patterns.
The backdrop of this positive momentum was a stark reality. A recent 2024 report from the World Bank Group had warned of impending groundwater droughts across Zimbabwe, painting a grim picture for agriculture, an integral part of the local economy. The community of Kadzere knew that without swift action, they could fall victim to the same fate threatening millions across the nation.
With MAYA’s partners rallying behind them, the Nyanga rural community prepared to launch public awareness campaigns focused on water conservation and environmental protection. Together, they envisioned a brighter, more sustainable future, one where hope triumphed over hardship.
In the weeks that followed, the people of Kadzere in Nyanga North District embraced their newfound knowledge, taking tangible steps to create a legacy of resilience. The story of their struggle was not just about water scarcity; it was a narrative of empowerment, innovation, and community strength. As they began to harvest the rain, they found not only water for their crops but also a renewed sense of purpose and unity that would carry them through the dry seasons ahead.
Jussa Kudherezera
Director MAYA, Manica Youth Assembly
Zimbabwe
Website: https://manicayouth.org
PS We agreed and thought it’s wiser to use the photos that show the dry water season. The people in these photos gave us consent to publish.