Philemon Jambaya
Zim Now Editor
Residents of Chitungwiza are calling for an urgent water indaba to address the town's worsening water crisis, which has left thousands without access to clean and portable water.
For months, residents have struggled to access water, with many spending hours queuing at boreholes and water distribution points. The situation has become unbearable, prompting residents to demand action from the local authorities.
"We're tired of queuing for hours only to get dirty water," said Sarah Moyo, a resident of Zengeza 1. "We need a solution now, not tomorrow, not next week, but now."
Chitungwiza's water crisis is not new, but it has worsened in recent months.
Residents have been forced to rely on boreholes and water vendors, who charge exorbitant prices for a precious commodity.
"I spend at least $2 per day on water," said John Tembo, a resident of St. Mary's. "It's unsustainable, but what choice do I have?"
Residents are demanding accountability from the Chitungwiza Municipality and the government.
"We want to know what's being done to address this crisis," said Kudzai Mupfumi, a resident of Seke Unit P. "We want transparency, we want accountability, and we want action."
The residents are calling for an indaba to bring together stakeholders, including the municipality, government officials, and residents, to find a lasting solution to the water crisis.
The water crisis has serious health implications, with residents at risk of waterborne diseases.
"We're seeing an increase in cases of cholera, typhoid, and diarrhea," said Dr. Tapiwa Moyo, a local health expert. "It's a ticking time bomb."
An effort to get a comment from Chitungwiza Municipality proved fruitless as Mayor Rosa Mangoma did not pick her mobile phone by the time of writing
As the water crisis deepens, residents are urging the authorities to take immediate action.
"We need a comprehensive plan to address this crisis," said Mupfumi. "We need action, not words."
The proposed water indaba is seen as a crucial step towards finding a lasting solution.
"We're willing to work with the authorities to find a solution," said Moyo. "But we need action, and we need it now."
Leave Comments