Bulawayo residents cry foul over 'phantom' water bills

The City of Bulawayo has revealed that out of a total of 138 388 water meters recorded citywide in December 2025, a staggering 74% - translating to 102 406 accounts - were billed on estimated readings.

Only 26%, or 35 982 meters, were physically visited and read during the month.

The figures are likely to reignite long-standing concerns among residents who have consistently accused the council of overreliance on estimated billings.

According to the latest municipal statistics tabled by the finance and development committee, the high proportion of estimated readings highlights operational challenges within the city's revenue collection and water metering systems.

"The total number of meters citywide in the month of December 2025 is 138 388. 74% of the meters (102 406) were estimated, whilst 26% (35 982) were visited for the purpose of obtaining readings," read part of the report.

With nearly three-quarters of consumers not having their meters physically read, fresh questions have emerged over the accuracy and fairness of the billing process in a city where water management remains a sensitive and strategic issue due to low dam levels and periodic supply disruptions.

Observers said the 74% estimation rate underscores the scale of the problem, particularly in Bulawayo, which has long grappled with water shortages and strict water-shedding schedules.

Residents' associations have for years objected to estimated bills, arguing that the charges often fail to reflect actual consumption patterns. Many maintain that estimated billing disproportionately affects low-consumption households and residents who actively practise water-saving measures amid the city's ongoing supply constraints.

One resident, Abigal Ndimande, said while estimated billing may create revenue predictability for the local authority, it also carries significant risks.

"For a municipality that relies heavily on water revenue to fund service delivery, the credibility of its billing system is critical," Ndimande said.

"Improving meter reading coverage would not only enhance consumer confidence but also strengthen revenue collection efficiency by reducing billing disputes and account reconciliations.

"As residents, we have previously called on the local authority to accelerate the installation of smart meters and adopt digital monitoring systems that allow for remote readings. We feel technology-driven solutions could significantly reduce reliance on estimates."

Residents said there is an urgent need to overhaul the city council's water billing system, arguing that they cannot be forced to pay for services they are not consistently receiving.

According to community representatives, the prolonged water crisis has exposed structural weaknesses in the council's billing framework, with some households reporting unexplained high bills.

Chairperson of the Bulawayo United Residents Association, Winos Dube, said the council's water billing system is fundamentally flawed and requires immediate reform to restore public confidence.

The latest figures are expected to intensify pressure on the local authority to improve meter reading coverage and modernise its billing systems as residents demand greater transparency and fairness in how water charges are calculated.