Story by John Nhandara
THE Government has released part of the US$2.2 million required to tackle long-standing sewer challenges in Chitungwiza, paving the way for critical infrastructure upgrades.
The funding will support the rehabilitation of the Zengeza Outfall Sewer Line, a project expected to bring lasting relief to residents who have endured perennial sewer blockages and overflows.
The old infrastructure was designed for a much smaller population.
“This problem of sewer and pipes bursting has been a common occurrence here in Zengeza,” a resident said.
“We see this project being implemented as a game-changer because these pipes had outlived their life span,” a Zengeza resident said.
Authorities say the project is a significant step towards restoring dignity and improving sanitation in the town, in line with the Government’s commitment to improving urban infrastructure under the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1).
The Chitungwiza Municipality, in collaboration with relevant stakeholders, is already on the ground implementing the phased works, with the aim of ensuring efficient sewer reticulation and improved public health outcomes for the community, being implemented under the devolution programme, with contractors now on site.
“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,” Project Works Manager-Chitungwiza Municipality, Engineer Jospeh Zenda said.
The project will benefit about 40 000 households in Zengeza and St Mary’s high-density suburbs.
“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,” Harare Metropolitan Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Senator Charles Tawengwa said.
The disbursement of devolution funds by the government and the subsequent implementation of this critical project bring relief to Chitungwiza residents who have been sitting on a ticking health time bomb for years.
