Building Back Better Domestic and Irrigation Water Supply Systems in the Aftermath of Tropical Cyclone Idai

Abstract

The frequency and magnitude of tropical cyclones reaching Zimbabwe, from the Mozambican channel, have been on the rise. This chapter unpacks the impacts of Tropical Cyclone Idai on domestic and irrigation water supply infrastructure, as well as exploring the key elements required, and some undertaken, to Build Back Better (BBB) water supply systems from the disaster in the Chimanimani district of Zimbabwe. The research used a mixed methods approach in data collection and analysis. Methods used include a questionnaire survey, in-depth interviews, document analysis and field observations. Results show that the water supply infrastructure for both domestic and irrigation use were extensively damaged by the tropical cyclone. Although the replacements done for these damaged facilities were meant to restore minimal service to the affected communities, there are elements of BBB emerging that are worth noting for the future. The damaged weir dams as well as school and health facility piped water systems were repaired in partnership with development partners. The business case for adopting the BBB principle in Chimanimani was primed on the projected intensification in the frequency of cyclones hitting the area in the future. The research recommends the strengthening of building standards for water supply infrastructure in order to make such facilities resilient to future shocks.