Sharon Chigeza
MUTARE – The City of Mutare is preparing to install 100 prepaid water meters as part of a pilot project scheduled to roll out within the next two months. This initiative aims to address ongoing challenges related to water supply, particularly the frequent burst pipes that have plagued the city.
During a recent press briefing, Mutare Town Clerk Blessing Chafesuka outlined the objectives of the project, emphasising its potential to improve water management and bolster revenue collection.
“All the necessary approvals are now available, and implementation modalities are being finalised. The local authority has put in motion plans to install 100 prepaid water meters in areas that are yet to be selected in the next two months,” he stated.
The decision to implement prepaid meters comes in response to numerous issues the city faces, including ballooning unpaid water bills and the significant loss of non-revenue water—water that is either lost through bursts or stolen via illegal connections.
Chafesuka noted that the city incurs costs treating this water without generating any revenue.
“Smart prepaid water meters will help address this issue,” he explained.
The Town Clerk highlighted the strain old water pipes endure due to the city’s gradient, which leads to frequent bursts that require constant repairs and replacements. He underscored that the 2025 budget has been dedicated to enhancing water and sanitation services to tackle these infrastructural challenges.
Chafesuka also mentioned that the city has partnered with the Harare Institute of Technology to facilitate the rollout of these smart meters.
“Over the last two weeks, we received 100 meters that will serve as a pilot project. Our Engineering Department is currently working on the modalities regarding which properties will receive these meters and how the pilot phase will be implemented,” he added.
Interestingly, the Mutare local authority’s project aligns with a similar initiative launched by the Government, announced by the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works.
“While we were in the midst of this, the Government launched a similar project. Council resolved that these two projects will run concurrently. I can now announce that we will be concluding discussions on how we will cooperate with the Government contractor in the rollout,” Chafesuka noted.
The benefits of the smart prepaid water meter system are promising. Residents will have greater control over their water consumption, allowing them to plan accordingly.
“If a family goes on holiday and won’t be using water, they won’t be charged for unused water,” Chafesuka explained. This system not only aids in revenue recovery but also encourages responsible water usage among residents.
As the pilot project approaches, Chafesuka urged the community to embrace the upcoming changes.
“Our residents should be prepared for these changes. This is a Government programme, and the council is part of that initiative. We hope our residents will support this project,” he concluded.
