By Innocent Sibonginkosi Ncube | Zim GBC News Editor<\/p>\n\n\n\n
BULAWAYO \u2013 City councillors have raised urgent concerns over Bulawayo\u2019s deepening water shortages, warning that the crisis threatens residents’ livelihoods, economic growth, and future development.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
During a full council meeting on Wednesday, Ward 25 Councillor Aleck Ndlovu described the situation as a “life and death” matter, stressing that water scarcity could determine the city\u2019s survival.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cThis is a life and death issue. The availability of water to residents will determine the future of this city, the very existence of its people, and prospects for development,\u201d Ndlovu said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Drought, Aging Infrastructure Worsen Crisis<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The city\u2019s water challenges have been exacerbated by poor rainfall and crumbling infrastructure, with councillors warning that leaks, pipe bursts, and high non-revenue water losses are worsening the situation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cWe did not have a good rainfall season, and our dams did not fill to optimum levels. Despite that, we still face issues with obsolete infrastructure\u2014leaks, bursts, and non-revenue water\u2014making our situation worse,\u201d Ndlovu added.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He also criticized the slow progress in underground water exploration, urging the council to accelerate hydrological studies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cWe seem to be taking our foot off the pedal when it comes to underground water exploration. We need more studies to guarantee a constant supply.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Calls for Improved Accountability<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ward 3 Councillor Mxolisi Mahlangu highlighted the alarming levels of non-revenue water, arguing that losses must be accurately tracked.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cWe cannot talk about water rationing strategies without addressing the quantified non-revenue water we keep losing. It\u2019s unfair to stick to the same 45-48% figures. Repairs should reflect in reduced losses,\u201d Mahlangu said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ward 18 Councillor Felix Madzana expressed frustration over delayed pipe repairs due to resource shortages.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cWhenever we report pipe damages, we\u2019re told there\u2019s no car or money. This has been the case for two years. Council must acquire resources to fix leaks promptly.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Mayor\u2019s Response<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Mayor David Coltart acknowledged the concerns, stating that a computerized system tracks repair reports.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cReports are logged with reference numbers, and councillors should have access to monitor progress. If there\u2019s a problem, it should be indicated in the report.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As Bulawayo\u2019s water crisis deepens, residents and officials await concrete solutions to secure the city\u2019s water future.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Zim GBC News | Global News From An African Perspective\u00a92025<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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