The City of Harare and Helcraw Water have now installed 30,000 smart water meters in several neighbourhoods. This work is part of a plan to put in more than 320,000 pre-paid meters across the city. The goal is to stop billing errors and help the city manage its water supply better as more people move to the capital. The new system ensures that residents only pay for the water they actually use. By using a pre-paid system, families can budget more easily and keep a closer eye on their water consumption.
Acting Town Clerk Phakamile Mabhena Moyo has asked residents to work with the installation teams, especially after reports that some people were trying to stop the work. In an official notice, he explained that the installation of smart pre-paid water meters is ongoing across the city and encouraged residents to swap their old metal underground pipes for PVC pipes. This change helps stop leaks and ensures the new meters work properly. The project is now moving into Budiriro 3, Kuwadzana, Kambuzuma, and parts of Eastlea, following successful work in areas like Aspindale Park, Belvedere, Westlea, Mabelreign, and Warren Park.
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Many residents who already have the new meters say they are happy to say goodbye to estimated bills that were often too high.
Farai Mutasa, a resident of Westlea, said that for years she was getting huge bills that did not make sense, but with the smart meter she is finally in control. She noted that she now pays only for what she uses, much like her electricity, which has helped her family save money.
In weastlea Tendai Gumbo agreed that transparency is exactly what the community needed. He mentioned that before Helcraw and the City started this project, billing felt like a guessing game, but he can now see his daily usage and adjust his habits accordingly. Sarah Chidzero from Mabelreign also praised the professional installation and the ability to track her balance. She expressed relief that fixed fees for dry taps are ending, noting that if there is no water, she does not lose any money, making it a great move for the future of Harare.
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