A winner has been crowned in this year’s Wetskills Zimbabwe Challenge! Team 1, “The Drought Rangers,” has emerged victorious amid the other challenge participants. The team consisted of five talented young professionals: Ebenezer Padi Narh (Ghana), Chenai Kanenungo (Zimbabwe), Chantele Kudzai Baipai (Zimbabwe), Mbekezeli Sibindi (Zimbabwe), and Mzingaye Ncube (Zimbabwe).
Their case, titled “Enhancing Drought Preparedness and Resilience in Bulawayo”, was commisioned by the City of Bulawayo’s Water and Sanitation Department. The Drought Rangers presented an innovative solution, the SIYEPHAMBILI PLAN, aimed at tackling the city’s recurring drought challenges by leveraging innovative technology and stakeholder engagement.
The SIYEPHAMBILI PLAN: An Ingenious Approach to Drought Management
The team’s proposal integrates LoRa networks and Sigfox technology to create a real-time data system that monitors water availability and usage across Bulawayo. This centralised platform will enable the city to shift from a reactive approach to drought crises, to one that is proactive. This could significantly reduce costs related to emergency responses and infrastructure repairs.
Key to Success: Collaboration and Public Engagement
Beyond the technological innovations, The Drought Rangers stressed the importance of engaging key stakeholders—including government entities, civil society organisations, and the public. By fostering collaboration across all sectors, Bulawayo can develop a sustainable, long-term strategy for managing its water resources. Public awareness and involvement will also promote a culture of conservation and shared responsibility, critical to ensuring the plan’s success.
Congratulations to The Drought Rangers for their inspiring work and groundbreaking contributions to Zimbabwe’s water future! We would also like to thank all other teams that participated in Wetskills Zimbabwe 2024, providing the country with tons of great solutions!
