Bulawayo councillors have urged the city council to improve water delivery and suspend the ongoing water-shedding schedule, arguing that residents continue to struggle despite a good rainy season.
During deliberations on the Future Water Supplies and Water Action report at the full council meeting on Wednesday, councillors expressed concern over the city’s low dam levels, which continue to exacerbate the crisis.
As of February 20, 2025, the combined storage capacity of Bulawayo’s supply dams stood at 45.99%.
Ward 28 councillor Ntandoyenkosi Ndlovu questioned when the restrictions would be lifted, saying residents were frustrated with the ongoing shortages.
“On behalf of the residents, we would like to know from the responsible committee when the water-shedding schedule will be lifted. People are tired of walking around with buckets searching for water,” said Cllr Ndlovu.
He also criticised the council for failing to communicate effectively with residents about the water crisis.
“We had a very good rainy season, yet the situation remains the same. Residents are asking why our supply dams never fill up enough to improve conditions. The council is also not doing enough to explain the issue to the public.
“People fear that, once again, they will be told that the council is incapacitated and unable to treat and distribute water. They have endured severe shortages and hoped the rains would bring relief.”
Ward 17 councillor Sikhululekile Moyo said the crisis had left residents disillusioned with the city council, particularly in areas that have seen little to no water supply.
“Residents in my ward no longer have faith in the local authority. We are one of the hardest-hit areas, with some parts not receiving water even on designated supply days.
“Even during the rainy season, there was no relief. We have water kiosks meant to serve as alternative sources, but the water bowsers rarely arrive, leaving residents even more desperate. The situation must improve,” she said.
Councillor Aleck Ndlovu criticised the local authority for failing to maintain the city’s fleet of water bowsers amid severe shortages.
“As a city, we have only seven water bowsers, but none of them are functional. How is this possible when we are dealing with such a critical crisis?” he asked.
“How can we run a city without the essential spare parts needed to fix the bowsers in emergency situations? We need to take this issue seriously and push the government to help resolve the crisis.”