Bulawayo Progressive Residents Association (BPRA) has called for a stakeholder engagement to develop sustainable solutions for electricity management and payment, in response to recent developments by Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company (ZETDC) to switch off tower lights in Bulawayo as it migrates from postpaid metering to a prepaid model.
ZETDC’s decision to switch off tower lights to prepaid metering has sparked condemnation from residents, who feel they haven’t been adequately consulted.
In their position paper, BPRA said regular consultations and transparency are key to maintaining trust and cooperation.
“The Bulawayo Progressive Residents Association (BPRA) is deeply concerned about the recent disconnection of tower lights by the Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company (ZETDC) in Bulawayo. This decision poses severe safety, economic and social risks to the residents and businesses of Bulawayo,” they said.
BPRA called for immediate action by both the local authority and ZETDC to solve this unwelcome development and, restore power to the tower lights, and implement sustainable solutions to prevent future occurrences.
“Bulawayo has faced persistent service delivery challenges, particularly in the areas of electricity supply, water and sanitation. The recent disconnection of tower lights by ZETDC, due to unpaid debts by the Bulawayo City Council (BCC) has exacerbated these challenges. Tower lights play a critical role in urban safety, economic activity, and overall quality of life. The disconnections have left many areas in darkness, increasing the risk of accidents, and crime, and hindering nighttime economic activities.”
They said the absence of tower lights creates dark spots, which are conducive to criminal activities such as theft, assault, and vandalism.
“Residents now feel unsafe, walking or commuting at night, which restricts their mobility and access to essential services.”
“Unlit streets and intersections pose significant hazards for motorists and pedestrians, increasing the likelihood of accidents, injuries and possible loss of life. Adequate street lighting is essential for visibility and the prevention of road traffic accidents,” said BPRA.
BPRA also highlighted the psychological impact of living in poorly lit environments, particularly for vulnerable groups such as women, children, persons with disability and the elderly.
“Many businesses, in particular the informal traders, rely on adequate lighting for security and to extend operating hours. The lack of tower lights negatively affects retail stores, restaurants, and other businesses that operate during evening hours, leading to decreased revenue and economic stagnation.”
BPRA said the development to disconnect the power supply to the tower lights undermines efforts to boost local tourism and generate income for the city.
“Bulawayo, a city with rich cultural heritage and tourism potential, suffers from reduced tourist attraction due to safety concerns, particularly in the Western areas of the city.”
They added that the economic slowdown caused by the disconnection of tower lights affects employment rates, particularly in sectors depending on nighttime activities.
BPRA said tower lights facilitate social and recreational activities in public spaces, “their absence limits community interactions and social cohesion, affecting the quality of life for residents.
“Students who rely on public spaces for evening study sessions are adversely affected, compromising their academic performance and opportunities for personal development,” they said.
Furthermore, BPRA said the safety risks associated with unlit streets impede access to emergency healthcare services, potentially delaying critical medical interventions and endangering lives.
