The Government has released a portion of the US$2.2 million allocated to address the long-standing sewer challenges in Chitungwiza, marking a critical step toward upgrading the town's dilapidated infrastructure. This crucial funding will support the rehabilitation of the Zengeza Outfall Sewer Line, a major project expected to deliver lasting relief to residents who have suffered from perennial sewer blockages and overflows for years.
The town's sewer system, originally designed for a significantly smaller population, has long been overwhelmed. “This problem of sewer and pipes bursting has been a common occurrence here in Zengeza,” one resident noted, reflecting the widespread frustration. Another Zengeza resident expressed optimism, stating, “We see this project being implemented as a game-changer because these pipes had outlived their life span.”
Authorities have hailed the project as a significant move towards restoring dignity and improving sanitation in the town. This initiative aligns directly with the Government’s commitment to enhancing urban infrastructure under the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1) and is being implemented under the devolution programme.
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The Chitungwiza Municipality, in collaboration with relevant stakeholders, is already on the ground, with contractors now on site implementing the phased works. The ultimate goal is to ensure efficient sewer reticulation and improved public health outcomes for the community.
Project Works Manager for Chitungwiza Municipality, Engineer Jospeh Zenda, detailed the scope of the intervention. “What we are doing is the replacement of old concrete pipes. We are implementing the project in two phases. We are now doing 9.8 kilometres,” he confirmed.
The rehabilitation efforts are set to benefit approximately 40,000 households across the high-density suburbs of Zengeza and St Mary’s.
Harare Metropolitan Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Senator Charles Tawengwa, assured residents of continued support. “We have seen progress made so far, and as the government, we will continue releasing these funds to improve service delivery in Chitungwiza. We have engaged various partners to ensure the success of the project, and we are pleased that implementation is underway,” he said.
The disbursement of devolution funds and the subsequent swift implementation of this critical infrastructure project bring much-needed relief to Chitungwiza residents, who have long been living on what was described as a “ticking health time bomb.”
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