News / National
Harare's smart water meter rollout hit by vandalism
2 hrs ago |
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The Harare City Council's drive to modernise water billing through smart prepaid meters is facing a setback after reports of widespread theft and vandalism targeting the newly installed devices.
The programme, being implemented by the City of Harare in partnership with Helcraw Water, is part of a broader effort to reduce revenue losses, improve water management, and introduce transparent billing systems. So far, more than 23 000 smart meters have been installed in high-density suburbs and the Avenues area, with plans to expand coverage to about 600 000 units nationwide.
However, the rollout is now being undermined by repeated incidents of vandalism, with reports indicating that thieves are specifically targeting meter valves and other components. City officials have warned that the destruction of public infrastructure threatens the viability of the project, which is intended to improve efficiency in a system long affected by losses from leaks and illegal connections.
Reactions from residents have been mixed. Some welcome the prepaid system, arguing that it could eliminate the burden of estimated billing. Others, however, say the model is problematic in a city where water supply is already inconsistent and quality remains a concern.
Harare Residents Trust director Precious Shumba said the programme remains highly contested, with ongoing engagement between residents, the city, and the implementing company. He said vandalism was a worrying new development and suggested it may be linked partly to lack of awareness, while also calling for stronger protection of public infrastructure through law enforcement.
The Combined Harare Residents Association also confirmed that theft of smart meter components is becoming increasingly common. Its leader, Rueben Akili, said residents are seeking clarification from the city on whether damaged or stolen meters will be replaced and how accountability will be handled.
Harare mayor Jacob Mafume has condemned the destruction of infrastructure, describing it as a serious offence that could attract custodial sentences. The city says it has engaged relevant authorities as it seeks to protect the rollout and prevent further losses.
The dispute highlights a broader tension between urban infrastructure reform and public acceptance in a context where service delivery challenges remain unresolved and trust between residents and authorities is fragile.
The programme, being implemented by the City of Harare in partnership with Helcraw Water, is part of a broader effort to reduce revenue losses, improve water management, and introduce transparent billing systems. So far, more than 23 000 smart meters have been installed in high-density suburbs and the Avenues area, with plans to expand coverage to about 600 000 units nationwide.
However, the rollout is now being undermined by repeated incidents of vandalism, with reports indicating that thieves are specifically targeting meter valves and other components. City officials have warned that the destruction of public infrastructure threatens the viability of the project, which is intended to improve efficiency in a system long affected by losses from leaks and illegal connections.
Reactions from residents have been mixed. Some welcome the prepaid system, arguing that it could eliminate the burden of estimated billing. Others, however, say the model is problematic in a city where water supply is already inconsistent and quality remains a concern.
Harare Residents Trust director Precious Shumba said the programme remains highly contested, with ongoing engagement between residents, the city, and the implementing company. He said vandalism was a worrying new development and suggested it may be linked partly to lack of awareness, while also calling for stronger protection of public infrastructure through law enforcement.
The Combined Harare Residents Association also confirmed that theft of smart meter components is becoming increasingly common. Its leader, Rueben Akili, said residents are seeking clarification from the city on whether damaged or stolen meters will be replaced and how accountability will be handled.
Harare mayor Jacob Mafume has condemned the destruction of infrastructure, describing it as a serious offence that could attract custodial sentences. The city says it has engaged relevant authorities as it seeks to protect the rollout and prevent further losses.
The dispute highlights a broader tension between urban infrastructure reform and public acceptance in a context where service delivery challenges remain unresolved and trust between residents and authorities is fragile.
Source - newsday
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