Harnessing Abandoned Mining Water Bodies for Rural Livelihoods in Mapanzure Community of Zvishavane District, Zimbabwe

Abstract

Zimbabwe is experiencing water challenges especially in rural areas. The study investigated opportunities for harnessing water bodies left behind by open cast miners in Mapanzure community. The study collected qualitative data through interviews, observation and documentary reviews. The findings were that disused mining pits could be utilised for market gardening, bee keeping, tourism and fisheries to support rural industrialisation. However, local community lacked capital and authority to harness the water. The study recommends a business model that is based on the rural industrialisation aspiration of the 2nd National Development Strategy (NDS-2). Water and land rights should be bankable to enable the community to gear development projects.