Landmark partnership paves way for a resilient future

Peter Tanyanyiwa

Herald Correspondent

A NEW chapter in the city’s long-standing quest for reliable water access is unfolding, driven by a groundbreaking partnership between Helcraw Water (Pvt) Ltd, the City of Harare, and the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works.

This public-private collaboration aims to overhaul the city’s ageing water infrastructure, boost production, reduce losses and ensure every resident enjoys safe, continuous access to clean water.

With a shared patriotic spirit and commitment to Zimbabwe’s development, stakeholders are united in their vision for a more resilient and sustainable water future for Harare.

Harare’s water crisis is as old as the city itself. Decades of underinvestment, ageing infrastructure, and rapid urban growth have left the city’s water systems strained to breaking point. The flagship Morton Jaffray Water Treatment Plant, which was designed to produce approximately 700 megalitres per day, has been operating at less than half capacity for years due to worn-out equipment and insufficient maintenance. As a result, many suburbs experience intermittent supply, with some areas going without piped water for over a decade.

The consequences are profound, health risks from waterborne diseases, economic disruptions, and a deepening sense of frustration among residents. It is against this backdrop that the new partnership seeks to deliver transformative change.

Helcraw Water (Pvt) Ltd, a Zimbabwean company is at the heart of this initiative. Known for its expertise in water metering and infrastructure supply, Helcraw Water has committed to deploying innovative solutions aligned with Zimbabwe’s national development goals.

Helcraw Water (Pvt) Ltd Managing Director Mr Zodeck Muchoko emphasised the patriotic nature of the project:

“This is more than a business venture; it’s a patriotic duty to serve our country and improve the lives of Zimbabweans. We believe in local solutions and Zimbabwean resilience. Our goal is to restore dignity through reliable water services, which are fundamental to health, economic growth, and social stability,” he said.

Harare’s Acting Town Clerk, Eng Phakamile Mabhena Moyo recently highlighted the strategic importance of the project:

“This collaboration is a critical step in transforming Harare’s water landscape. We are committed to ensuring that every citizen benefits from a safe, sustainable water supply. Our partnership with Helcraw Water is a testament to what can be achieved through unity and shared vision,” said Eng Moyo.

The comprehensive project involves three key components, each designed to address specific challenges faced by the city:

1. Rehabilitation of Morton Jaffray Water Treatment Plant

The heart of Harare’s water supply, Morton Jaffray, has been operating below capacity for years. The partnership aims to increase its output from the current 350 megalitres per day to over 520 megalitres, ensuring adequate supply for the city’s growing population. Upgrades will include modernising filtration processes, chemical dosing, and automation systems to improve efficiency, reliability, and resilience against future shocks.

Mr Muchoko explained: “Rehabilitating Morton Jaffray is crucial. We are investing in state-of-the-art technology to ensure the plant operates at optimal levels. This will secure water for current and future generations.”

2. Replacement of Ageing Distribution Pipes

A significant part of the water loss problem stems from the deteriorating asbestos cement pipes laid decades ago. These pipes are prone to bursts, leaks, and contamination, which contribute to high non-revenue water — estimated at around 60%. The project will replace over 500 kilometres of old pipes with durable, corrosion-resistant PVC alternatives.

Eng Moyo added: “Replacing these pipes is vital. It will reduce physical losses, improve water quality, and ensure stable pressure across the city. We are targeting the most affected areas first, such as Warren Park and Greendale, where residents have suffered for years.”

3. Deployment of Smart Prepaid Water Meters

To modernise billing and improve revenue collection, the project includes installing 650,000 smart prepaid water meters across Harare. These meters will enable real-time monitoring, leak detection, and accurate billing, reducing commercial losses and enhancing transparency.

Mr Muchoko noted: “Smart meters are game-changers. They empower residents to manage their water usage, prevent wastage, and ensure fair billing. This technology aligns with Zimbabwe’s vision for a digital economy and sustainable resource management.”

Progress and Impact on the Ground

The project is already making significant strides. To date, Helcraw Water has procured and begun installing 30 kilometres of PVC pipes in high-need suburbs such as Warren Park and Highlands. The company has procured 60,000 smart prepaid meters, with 20,000 already delivered. The rest are on their way, with a steady monthly supply expected to cover all households across Harare.

Public awareness campaigns are underway, with city officials and Helcraw teams engaging residents to foster understanding and support. The first batch of meters has been tested and is functioning effectively, allowing residents to buy water conveniently and fairly.

Furthermore, Helcraw Water has supplied the City of Harare with 40 service vehicles to facilitate maintenance and rapid response, ensuring the project’s momentum is maintained.

The partnership’s strength lies in its patriotic foundation.

“This is a Zimbabwean solution crafted with local expertise and international best practices. We are proud to be part of a project that will leave a lasting legacy for our country. Our success here can inspire other cities and sectors to harness local innovation for national development,” said Mr Muchoko.

Harare’s Mayor Councillor Jacob Mafume said the project embodies Zimbabwe’s resilience and capacity for self-reliance.

“We are committed to building infrastructure that stands the test of time, creating jobs, and improving public health. It’s a project driven by patriotism and a shared desire to see Harare thrive.”

The water crisis in Harare is compounded by factors such as population growth, climate change, and systemic corruption. The city’s population has expanded rapidly, frequently outstripping infrastructure. The deterioration of the existing water system, alongside power outages affecting Morton Jaffray, has worsened the situation.

By modernising treatment plants, replacing pipes, and introducing smart technology, the project aims to address these challenges comprehensively. It also aligns with Zimbabwe’s national development blueprint, the Transitional Stabilisation Programme (TSP), which prioritises infrastructure renewal, economic growth, and service delivery.

The success of this partnership holds promise beyond Harare. It demonstrates that strategic collaboration between government and the private sector, rooted in patriotism and innovation, can deliver tangible results. The project’s three-year timeline for phase one is ambitious but achievable, with the potential to be replicated in other urban centres across Zimbabwe.

“Our hope is that Harare’s water transformation becomes a blueprint for nationwide development. We want to show that Zimbabweans can craft homegrown solutions to our most pressing challenges, fostering a sense of pride and ownership,” added Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume.

In concluding, Mr Muchoko expressed his confidence: “Zimbabwe has all the ingredients for success — talented engineers, dedicated workers, and a patriotic spirit. Together, we will restore Harare’s water system, and in doing so, restore hope for a brighter, more resilient Zimbabwe.”