US$9.8m boost for Harare water

Remember Deketeke-Herald Correspondent

HARARE’s water supply system has received a major boost following a US$9.8 million investment from central Government for the installation of 19 high-capacity pumps at Morton Jaffray and Warren Control.

This was said by Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume during a tour of Helcrow Electrical and Morton Jaffray water treatment plant in the capital by the Minister of State for Harare Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Senator Charles Tawengwa.

“We were given US$9.8 million by central Government, which covered the purchase of 14 pumps for Warren Control and five pumps here at Morton Jaffray,” said Mayor Mafume.

“Each of these pumps is capable of delivering over 1 000 litres of water per second, which will greatly enhance our capacity and reliability.”

Harare Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister, Senator Charles Tavengwa (centre) is shown the new water pump by Harare City Mayor, Jacob Mafume (right) and Town Clerk, Engineer Phakamile Mabena Moyo during a tour at Morton Jeffrey yesterday.- Picture: Edward Zvemisha

He revealed that some of the water will be coming from Darwendale dam and also from Lake Chivero.

The Mayor said Harare’s ageing pipe network, spanning over 6 500 kilometres, is being rehabilitated in phases, starting with 107 kilometres under the first phase and 200 kilometres in the second.

“The first phase covers 107 kilometres, while the second phase will see the replacement of a further 200 kilometres.”

Sen Tawengwa said access to water was a constitutional right and the Government was working tirelessly to ensure residents and industries alike received clean and reliable supplies.

“As you are aware, water is a constitutional right. Our people must receive enough water, and I’m pleased that the major pumps are now being mounted in the tunnel,” he said.

“The project is expected to be completed within two months, increasing supply to about 520 megalitres per day. This will mean cleaner and more consistent water for homes and industries.”

Sen Tawengwa said the blending of water from Darwendale Dam and Lake Chivero would improve both quality and availability, while the upgrade dovetailed with President Mnangagwa’s Vision 2030 drive to modernise critical infrastructure.

“We are fulfilling the vision of His Excellency by ensuring that water delivery systems are restored. This is part of the broader Government programme to revitalise key urban services,” he said.