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Confusion reigns over council billing system

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Authorities at Harare City Council continue to issue conflicting statements over the chaotic water billing system, with management insisting that all is in order,

Authorities at Harare City Council continue to issue conflicting statements over the chaotic water billing system, with management insisting that all is in order, while the mayor has publicly admitted that it is in shambles. A statement from the management on Thursday said the system had been “incorrectly” described as shambolic. This was in response to threats that residents were mooting a demonstration after being billed despite being disconnected.

By Phyllis Mbanje

Council insisted that the disconnections were over unpaid bills and that Harare City Council “has full confidence in its billing system”.

Two weeks ago, while addressing stakeholders during a water conference called by the Combined Harare Residents’ Association, mayor Ben Manyenyeni conceded that the billing system needed a complete overhaul. He said it had created so much mistrust between council and the residents.

“Our billing system has not secured the requisite level of trust and accuracy among our residents to ensure their regular payments,” said Manyenyeni.

However, explaining the billing of those who were disconnected, but were not using water, the management said residents would still continue receiving municipal bills with the other charges.

“Harare issues a composite bill that includes water, refuse collections, rates and sewer charges. The cost has to be borne by the consumer and in this case, the Harare resident. It is unimaginable and unrealistic to suggest that council should provide free water,” read the statement.

The statement dismissed complaints suggesting that council was inflating water bills for periods residents were disconnected. However, Manyenyeni admitted that the council’s ineffective billing system, which often resulted in residents receiving inflated water bills, was one of the factors behind non-payment by residents.

The local authority refuted reports it was not engaging residents on pertinent issues of service delivery.

“This is very untrue because every month councillors convene ward meetings which are attended by residents and city officials. Relevant and topical issues raised during such platforms are attended to,” said council.