The construction of the largest inland dam in Zimbabwe, Tokwe Mukorsi Dam, has finally been completion. The construction of the dam began in June 1998 and went through various challenges over the years including an unplanned rising reservoir which caused upstream evacuations.
The $200 million project was for the purpose of flood control, irrigation, fisheries and water storage. There is high expectation that the giant dam will spark widespread development of property and commercial activity in and around Masvingo Province, especially in two main sectors of the economy, agriculture and tourism.
There are immense benefits expected to be derived from the construction of the dam considering the estimated revenue and developments that sectors like span fisheries, boat cruises, wildlife parks and power generation create.
A hotel is expected to be built, creating about 700 jobs, in anticipation of increased tourism activity in the town.
Finance and Economic Development Minister Patrick Chinamasa, confirmed that the gigantic reservoir was now storing water. It was indicated that a committee had since been put in place to draw up a master plan to open up 26 000 hectares of irrigation land.
The 15 megawatt hydro power station being installed at the dam was expected to be commissioned by the end of 2015. This is expected to significantly contribute to the power deficit currently being experienced by Zimbabwe. The dam is 90,3 metres tall and creates a 1 750 000 000 cubic metre reservoir, making it the largest inland dam in the country.
Construction of the dam was undertaken by an Italian firm, Salini Impregilo.
