Africa Moyo
Deputy National Editor
PRESIDENT Mnangagwa is expected to launch Chinhoyi’s new prepaid water distribution network this Saturday, following Government’s intervention to restore supplies to thousands of households that have endured decades of water shortages.
The launch will take place on the final day of the 23rd ZANU PF National People’s Conference, which is being held in Chinhoyi.
In a statement this evening, Local Government and Public Works Permanent Secretary Engineer Tafadzwa Muguti confirmed the planned launch.
The intervention follows the President’s September 14 directive to the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works to address the town’s water crisis.
Local contractor Helcraw Water was appointed to undertake the project, with more than 3 500 households having now regained access to clean, treated running water since work began.
Chinhoyi has more than 107 kilometres of ageing asbestos water pipes dating back to the colonial era.
The local authority had struggled to replace the network, contributing to persistent shortages affecting close to 40 000 households.
Some residents benefiting from the ongoing works had gone for more than 30 years without water.
The new prepaid water distribution network is expected to improve water management, while the replacement of old pipes should enhance the reliability of supplies and reduce water losses.
The project is part of broader efforts to address longstanding infrastructure challenges and improve service delivery in urban areas.
The ZANU PF conference began on Monday and ends tomorrow, October 17, under the theme:
“From Resolutions to Results: Consolidating Economic Development and Deepening Empowerment towards Vision 2030”.
