Bulawayo grapples with bulk water challenges, council seeks solutions

11 February 2025

By Effort Moyo

Bulawayo City Council Deputy Mayor and Councillor Edwin Ndlovu has revealed that the city is struggling with bulk water challenges and water leakages due to old pipes.

This pressing concern was highlighted during a meeting at the Council Chambers, where Ndlovu assured residents that the council is committed to finding solutions.

Deputy Mayor Ndlovu appealed to residents to trust the council and support its decision-making processes, emphasizing that the council is open to any initiatives that can provide a solution to the bulk water challenge.

“We lose a lot of water due to leaks. If donors or funders come forward to help us address that leakage which is almost half of our supply, we will be very open to it. Any initiative to bring bulk water will be welcomed, as will any project aimed at curbing those water losses. Speaking on behalf of my fellow councillors, I urge you to trust us. Trust us with the initiatives we are developing, and please help us by contributing to the decision making process and how we implement these solutions,” said Councillor Ndlovu.

In a bid to improve efficiency in the management of water and sanitation services, the City Council has initiated a consultation process on the formation of the City of Bulawayo Water Utility.

This proposed utility aims to streamline services and provide a more sustainable solution to the city’s water woes. The council will engage with residents in the coming weeks to discuss the proposed water utility and its benefits.