Government Unlocks US$2.2 Million To End Chitungwiza Sewer Nightmare

The Government has disbursed part of the US$2.2 million required to tackle Chitungwiza’s long‑standing sewer crisis, paving the way for critical upgrades to the collapsing Zengeza Outfall Sewer Line.

The project is expected to bring lasting relief to thousands of residents who have endured years of blockages and raw sewage overflows.

The ageing sewer system, designed decades ago for a much smaller population, has been overwhelmed by rapid urban growth.

Bursts and overflows have become a daily nightmare in suburbs such as Zengeza and St Mary’s, exposing families to serious health risks.

Authorities say the rehabilitation is being implemented under the devolution programme and aligns with the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1).

Residents welcomed the development, describing it as long overdue.

“This problem of sewer and pipes bursting has been a common occurrence here in Zengeza,” one resident said.

Another added, “We see this project being implemented as a game‑changer because these pipes had outlived their life span.”

Chitungwiza Municipality confirmed that contractors are already 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, Engineer Joseph Zenda, explained.

The project is expected to benefit about 40,000 households across Zengeza and St Mary’s.

Authorities say the phased approach will ensure efficiency and minimise disruption to residents as the works progress.

Government officials stressed their commitment to funding the project until completion.

“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.

For years, residents have lived under what health experts described as a ticking health time bomb.

The release of funds and commencement of works mark a turning point, with authorities confident that the new infrastructure will restore dignity, improve sanitation, and safeguard public health in one of Zimbabwe’s fastest‑growing towns.

— ZBC