Sewer stench becomes Bulawayo's new normal

For residents in Cowdray Park, Njube, and other suburbs, the stench of sewage, buzzing flies, and bubbling waste has become a daily reality, as the city's ageing sewer system collapses under pressure.

Water supply, which flows only twice a week in most areas, has worsened the situation. When water finally arrives, it causes burst sewer pipes to spill waste into streets, yards, and school routes, creating serious health hazards.

Samkeliso Mavundla of Njube described the ordeal: "When the water comes, the sewer erupts. Now we fear for our children. Cholera can break out any time." Residents say the rainy season spreads the waste further into residential areas, raising public health concerns.

In Cowdray Park near Garikai, a burst sewer pipe at the Bulawayo Projects Centre has turned a school entrance into a hazard. One worker described the situation as "a sewage volcano," warning that children crossing contaminated areas risk carrying disease into classrooms.

Ward 17 Councillor Sikhululekile Moyo said little progress has been made despite the city hiring contractors—including Nambs Investments, Tokologo Technical, Saltavay Enterprises, and Mine Assistance Company (MAC)—in August 2024 to assess and repair the network.

"We have not seen any change in our communities. People are still living with burst sewer pipes. When repairs are done, the pipes burst again shortly after. We need a permanent solution," Councillor Moyo said.

Residents are calling on the Bulawayo City Council to implement long-term fixes to prevent further public health risks, particularly as the rainy season continues.