‘Insensitive and Unjust’: Zinwa Under Fire Over Water Vendor Arrests
CHINHOYI — A sweeping crackdown by the Zimbabwe National Water Authority (Zinwa) and the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) on unlicensed bulk water sellers has sparked fury among Chinhoyi residents, who say the arrests are cruel and unjust amid a worsening water crisis.
With some families going for months without clean water, locals argue the operation punishes survival rather than crime.
The joint operation, led by Zinwa’s Middle Manyame Sub-Catchment Council, has targeted individuals selling bulk water without permits — a move residents say ignores the reality on the ground.
In suburbs like White City and Chikonohono, many households rely on private water vendors to meet daily needs due to the council’s failure to supply potable water.
“I have been buying water to survive, but then Zinwa comes and arrests those selling bulk water to residents. They are insensitive to our plight,” said Chipo Mangeya, a resident of White City.
Nomatter Chikwaka from Chikonohono echoed similar frustrations, questioning the logic behind penalizing those offering a lifeline.
“Zinwa should be lenient with us. Our council is failing to provide water due to financial constraints. What’s wrong with selling water from one’s borehole?” she asked.
Zinwa Middle Manyame regional manager Bilton Simango confirmed the arrests, stating that only unregistered bulk water vendors are being targeted.
“We are arresting only those selling bulk water without permits,” he said.
Simango explained that the operation is aimed at protecting groundwater aquifers, ensuring public health, and verifying water quality.
“These actions are necessary to protect critical groundwater aquifers, safeguard public health and ensure that any bulk water supplied to communities is drawn from authorised sources and meets established quality standards,” he added.
He urged those in the water business to register with Zinwa to avoid legal consequences.
Registration costs approximately US$250 or its equivalent in ZiG per year.
Simango said the process allows the authority to trace water sources and prevent pollution.
According to NewsDay, the arrests have reignited public debate over the failure of local councils to provide reliable water services.
Many urban residents are left with no choice but to rely on informal water sources, increasing the risk of waterborne diseases and other health hazards.
The situation has highlighted the urgent need for authorities to address infrastructural and financial shortcomings.
As residents continue to struggle for access to a basic human right, calls are growing for a more compassionate and coordinated response that prioritizes survival over regulation.
