VP Chiwenga Uncovers Ghost Project in Binga: Millions Spent, Little to Show
BINGA – Calling it a “shocking waste” of Government resources, Vice President Dr Constantino Chiwenga uncovered what he described as a ghost project at Bhulaayo Kraal in Binga, where millions have been spent but very little has been achieved.
The agricultural scheme, intended to transform rural livelihoods by cultivating 15,000 hectares, has stalled with only 400 hectares targeted, while critical infrastructure lies idle, vandalised, or missing.
The Bhulaayo Kraal Project was launched under the Government’s rural transformation and food security strategy, designed to promote sustainable agriculture and financial inclusion.
However, Vice President Chiwenga’s inspection revealed a site far removed from its original vision, with most of the equipment unused and the land grossly underutilised.
While touring the site, the Vice President expressed disappointment over the condition of infrastructure.
Centre pivot irrigation systems installed more than five years ago had never been activated and were now deteriorating.
Fertiliser meant for crop production had been left exposed and was decomposing, while water pipes procured to draw from the Zambezi River lay unused and damaged.
Fencing wire intended to protect the fields had also been vandalised.
“The condition of agricultural equipment here is a concern, the centre pivot irrigation systems, brought to the scheme over five years ago, have never been utilised and are now susceptible to vandalism,” said Vice President Chiwenga.
As a farmer himself, he quickly recognised signs of deception.
A small patch of land had been hastily cultivated shortly before his arrival — an apparent attempt to mislead him regarding the project’s progress.
He described the effort as dishonest and said it undermined the purpose of the initiative.
According to The Herald, the project currently benefits only 250 people, which is significantly below its intended reach.
Vice President Chiwenga emphasised that the scheme was designed to serve the entire community and beyond.
“Let us make use of these resources to leave a lasting inheritance for future generations, our children and grandchildren,” he urged.
He called for a united approach involving Government departments, traditional leaders, and local communities to revive the project and ensure it delivers on its promise.
“We must protect what has been provided and ensure it delivers real value to the people,” he said.
In contrast, Vice President Chiwenga praised the Makorokoro Nutrition Garden in Matabeleland South, which he visited ten days earlier and found thriving.
He stated that it demonstrated how proper management and community involvement can turn Government programmes into success stories.
The Vice President also visited the revitalised Kamativi Lithium Mine, where he acknowledged the impact of fluctuating global prices on cash flows.
“As we all know, we are living in an era where lithium has become one of the most sought-after minerals in the world,” he said.
Commissioned by President Mnangagwa in 2023, the mine has transitioned from tin production to lithium extraction, boosting local employment and economic growth.
“Its significance cannot be overstated.
“Lithium is essential for the production of batteries that power everything from smartphones to electric vehicles,” Vice President Chiwenga added.
He emphasised the need for local value addition and beneficiation to ensure Zimbabwe maximises returns from its mineral wealth.
“As countries strive for green energy solutions, the demand for lithium will only increase.
“Kamativi Mine positions Zimbabwe at the forefront of this global shift,” he said.
Vice President Chiwenga concluded by urging all stakeholders to safeguard development projects and ensure that public resources are used effectively to improve livelihoods and secure the future of rural communities.
