GOVERNMENT has reportedly released part of the US$2,2 million required to overhaul Chitungwiza’s long-neglected sewer system.
The disbursement marks the beginning of a critical rehabilitation project targeting the Zengeza Outfall Sewer Line, a move set to restore dignity and improve sanitation for thousands of families who have lived under the constant threat of sewage overflow.
Harare Metropolitan Affairs and Devolution minister Charles Tawengwa reaffirmed government’s commitment to seeing the project through.
“We have seen progress made so far, and as the government, we will continue releasing these funds to improve service delivery in Chitungwiza,” he said during a media tour of the Water, Sanitation and Hygiene projects in Chitungwiza on Wednesday.
“We have engaged various partners to ensure the success of the project and we are pleased that implementation is underway.”
He said the project aligned with the National Development Strategy 1, which placed infrastructure development at the heart of Zimbabwe’s modernisation agenda.
“Improved sewage reticulation not only restores public confidence in service delivery, but also protects communities from waterborne diseases and environmental hazards.”
Chitungwiza Municipality, in partnership with key stakeholders, has already commenced phased works to replace old concrete sewage pipes with modern infrastructure.
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“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,” said engineer Joseph Zenda, project works manager at the municipality.
The rehabilitation, being implemented under the devolution programme, is expected to bring lasting relief to residents in Zengeza and St Mary’s suburbs, where ageing sewage infrastructure has repeatedly failed.
Designed decades ago for a much smaller population, the current system has long been overwhelmed, resulting in burst pipes, blockages and hazardous overflows that posed serious public health risks.
Once complete, the project is expected to benefit about 40 000 households across Zengeza and St Mary’s, significantly reducing the risk of sewer bursts and improving overall sanitation.
For years, Chitungwiza residents have lived on what many describe as a “ticking health time bomb”, with sewage often flowing on streets and into homes.
