AFTER nearly three decades without a functional public restroom, the Old Tafara community, about 25km east of the capital, Harare, recently gathered to witness the official opening of a newly-renovated public toilet, ushering in a new era of improved sanitation and community pride.
The project, spearheaded by local leaders and residents, marks a significant step forward for the neighbourhood, addressing a long-standing issue that had plagued the area, characterised by the higgledy-piggledy flea-markets and public transport, a distance away.
In a heart-warming ceremony, a sizeable crowd joined ward 9 councillor Prince Mutebuka, region 5 manager of Harare City Council, Faith Raradza, Tafara Residents and Ratepayers Association (RRPA) chairperson Rex Chikoti, ward 9 development committee member Maganizo Vissencio and community member Raramai Mafuratidze to commemorate the occasion and discuss the facility’s protection and impact.
The public toilet, which underwent renovations starting in 2024 at a cost of approximately US$5 000, now boasts state-of-the-art amenities, including modern toilet seats and running water — a stark contrast to the dilapidated facility that had previously served the community.
Mutebuka was elated over the project’s completion, stating: “This is a moment of immense relief and joy for our community.
“We have been waiting for decades to have a functional public toilet and today we can finally say that our residents have access to the basic sanitation they deserve.”
Handing over the keys of the toilet, Mutebuka announced an upcoming memorandum of understanding between council and the RRPA to hand over the facility, ensuring community ownership and sustainable long-term care.
Raradza emphasised the importance of community involvement in the project’s success.
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“This is not just a city council initiative; it is a collaborative effort between the local government and the residents of Tafara,” she said.
“The community’s commitment to maintaining and caring for this facility will be crucial to its long-term sustainability.”
Chikoti expressed gratitude for the project, stating: “We are grateful to the city council and our local leaders for prioritising this issue.
“This public toilet will not only improve our daily lives, but also serve as a symbol of our community’s resilience and unity.”
Vissencio highlighted the need for continued vigilance in preserving the facility.
“While we celebrate this achievement, we must also be mindful of the potential for vandalism and abuse.
“We urge our fellow community members to take ownership of this facility and treat it with the care and respect it deserves.”
Mafuratidze, who had long advocated for the project, shared his excitement: “This is a dream come true for us. We can now walk with our heads held high, knowing that we have access to a clean and functional public toilet. This is a significant step forward for our community.”
As the Tafara community looks to the future, the opening of the public toilet marks a significant milestone in the area’s development, paving way for improved quality of life and a renewed sense of pride among residents, vendors and local businesspersons.
