Bulawayo councillors fear flash floods

As the rainy season approaches, Bulawayo councillors are directing Ward Retention Funds (WRF) towards improving the city's drainage systems to prevent flooding into residential areas. These funds, which are allocated for development projects in each ward, are being used to rehabilitate drainage infrastructure in flood-prone areas, ensuring better management of rainwater.

WRF, a mini version of the Constituency Development Fund (CDF), allows councillors to access three percent of all revenue collected from local ratepayers for the implementation of community-based projects. The funds are intended to address local development needs, with a focus on improving essential infrastructure.

Ward 25 councillor, Aleck Ndlovu, whose area is particularly prone to flash floods, highlighted that drainage rehabilitation is a priority this season. "Three percent of every dollar paid by residents is what we use for rehabilitation of drainage systems, clearing footpaths, footbridges, among other facilities," he said. However, Ndlovu noted that the project had faced delays, as insufficient funds earlier in the year meant no significant progress had been made by April.

Despite these challenges, Ndlovu shared that his ward had received support from not only the local authority but also from well-wishers and private entities, including contributions from churches. "Some of the funds came from the church and from well-wishers," he added.

Council engineering department chairperson, Livie Sibanda, confirmed that work on the drainage systems is underway but was unavailable for further comment when contacted. Earlier this year, the local authority had revealed that it was engaging jobless youths for excavation work to prevent flooding and downstream erosion, particularly in high-risk areas.

Bulawayo's suburbs, including Nketa 9, Njube, Sizinda, Tshabalala, and Nkulumane, are notorious for frequent flooding during the rainy season due to inadequate drainage infrastructure. The local authority has committed to addressing these issues with the help of the WRF and other resources, with an emphasis on preventing damage to homes and public spaces during heavy rains.

With the rainy season now underway, the city's focus remains on ensuring that drainage systems are properly rehabilitated and ready to handle the expected downpours, providing relief to residents and minimizing potential flood risks.