Residents in Cowdray Park are urging the Bulawayo City Council (BCC) to expedite the installation of sewage systems in Ward 15 and improve other related service delivery facilities.
Ward 15 Councillor, Ashton Mhlanga, reported that 95% of his area remains underdeveloped. He said that most parts of Segment 3 and some areas of Garikai/Hlalani Kuhle lack water and sewer reticulation.
“Some areas don’t have access to water and sewer systems. Sewer system installation is almost 90% complete, but progress is stalled because rocks were found where the pipes need to be laid, according to the City Council,” said Cllr Mhlanga.
He added that the City Clerk mentioned companies interested in servicing the area, but the challenge lies in the lack of funds.
Cllr Mhlanga revealed that not only residents but also schools are affected.
“We have Cowdray Park primary school and V. Mhlophe secondary school which fall under the underdeveloped section. These schools do not have sewer systems either. They use blair toilets and septic tanks systems which is entirely hygienic for such public spaces,” he explained.
Resident leaders also echoed concerns about the underdevelopment and its challenges. Pretty Moyo, Vice Chairperson of the residents’ committee, stated that most Blair toilets are full and overflowing, posing a serious health hazard.
“Our Blair toilets are full. We desperately hope this situation can be rectified,” said Moyo. “The city’s water shortages further strain us as we have no alternative water sources. Drilling boreholes is out of reach for many residents, forcing them to use the bush.”
She also raised concerns about resident contributions to a consortium for machinery that seemingly vanished.
“We contributed money to a consortium to buy heavy-duty machinery for rental income. However, the consortium disappeared, leaving us with nothing. The proceeds could have helped pay for some of the services we need,” she lamented.
Another resident, Douglas Ndlovu, suggested a phased approach by the council.
“We would appreciate it if the council could service the area in sections, completing one before moving to the next. Currently, they dig and leave everything unfinished. We’ve had to cover some pits ourselves to prevent accidents involving children.”
