Multiple agreements have been signed for the Mozambique-Zimbabwe River Basin. The agreements were signed between the governments of Mozambique and Zimbabwe during a trip by Mozambican President Filipe Nyusi to Harare, Zimbabwe’s capital. The latter was hosted by Emmerson Mnangagwa.
The agreements cover the development of the Buzi, Pungué and Save rivers that are shared by both countries. The development plans include the construction of infrastructure and following the principle of rational use of water, improving flood forecasting and warning systems.
Additionally, the river basin agreement will empower implementing mechanisms to respond to extreme events. Noteworthy, these extreme events are increasingly more frequent and severe, the Mozambique government alluded.
Also Read: Mozambique commence construction of a new bridge across Licungo River
Significance of the Mozambique-Zimbabwe River Basin Agreements
“The river basin agreement should allow for more effective management of resources and the construction of water resource management infrastructure,” Nyusi stressed on the occasion. Additionally, Mozambique’s minister of public works, Carlos Mesquita, referred to the three river basins that cross central and southern Mozambique to be of strategic importance.
“It is in these river basins that the Chicamba hydroelectric dam, the Mavuzi dam, the Muda Nhaurire dam and the Gorongosa dam were built, which are vital for the economic development of Mozambique,” he said. These are projects that contribute to the water supply to the population, agricultural production and power generation. Importantly, the projects provide water supply for both industry and environmental preservation, he insisted.
On the horizon is the determination to build joint projects. Mesquita referred to two infrastructures in Zimbabwean territory that have a tremendous impact on Mozambique. They include Chipanda Pool Dam, a capacity of 510 million cubic metres, and Chitowe Dam, a capacity of 50 million cubic metres. Both dams are situated 70 kilometres from the border.
The allocation scheme will be defined during the mobilization of funds. Additionally, the Mozambican side will build a set of dams, to help regulate flows and leverage agricultural and livestock development.
