Published: 12 hours ago

The Economic Justice for Women Project (EJWP) has petitioned Parliament, raising concerns over the privatisation of water in Zimbabwe's local authorities and urging lawmakers to introduce a Water Justice Bill to safeguard equitable access.

The Ministry of Local Government, in collaboration with Harare City Council and Helcraw, is implementing prepaid water meters in the capital, with plans to expand the system to other municipalities. However, residents' organisations and civic groups have criticised the move, arguing it effectively hands over the city council's mandate to private entities.

EJWP programs lead, Tanyaradzwa Jura, said the initiative disproportionately affects women and violates Section 77 of the Constitution, which guarantees every citizen the right to safe, clean, and potable water.

"This decision risks undermining constitutional rights and increasing social inequalities, particularly gender inequality, whilst compromising public health. The government is trusting market forces over human rights, directly contravening Section 77 of Zimbabwe's Constitution," Jura said.

The government has indicated that 15,000 households were fitted with smart meters as part of a pilot project last month. Harare City Council has been struggling to provide water, with some areas receiving supply only two days a week.

In their petition, EJWP is urging Parliament to halt water privatisation and implement measures to ensure public ownership and community-managed water systems. The organisation also calls for a gendered human rights impact assessment before any water sector reforms and for meaningful consultation with women and marginalised groups in water governance.

"Today, EJWP and representatives of its members are submitting a petition to Parliament and a policy brief to respective stakeholders, demanding that water privatisation be stopped, a Water Justice Bill passed, and communities meaningfully included in governance," Jura added.

The move is part of a growing push by civic groups to challenge the involvement of private companies in essential public services and protect equitable access to water.
- NewZimbabwe

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