The City of Harare has embarked on a comprehensive, long-term program to modernize its water infrastructure, which will include the controversial introduction of prepaid water meters and smart metering technology across the greater Harare area.

The ambitious project, announced in a public notice is intended to improve access to clean, reliable water and enhance operational efficiency.

“The City of Harare will be implementing major initiatives to improve access to clean and reliable potable water across Greater Harare through infrastructure modernization and enhanced efficiency,” the statement revealed.

The city, which has been struggling with chronic water shortages, burst pipes, and recurrent waterborne disease outbreaks, is partnering with external entities to rehabilitate its water production and distribution network.

“The City together with its partners will rehabilitate water production and distribution infrastructure to improve service delivery, and ensure a consistent potable water supply for all residents.” Reads the statement.

The program, which is already underway with a pilot project in the Central Business District (CBD), will be rolled out to several suburbs, with the notice specifically naming Warren Park, Westlea, and Avondale.

The plan entails four major interventions; smart water metering and prepaid meters, water network rehabilitation, water treatment works rehabilitation and improvement of water service delivery.

The council has revealed that their overall goal is to secure a consistent potable water supply for all residents.

According to the City Council, local service delivery disruptions may be experienced due to unavoidable shutdowns/isolations.

“During the implementation period, local service delivery disruptions may be experienced due to unavoidable shutdowns/isolations.” Reads the statement.

Acting Town Clerk Eng. R. M. Moyo called for cooperation from all stakeholders to ensure the success of the project.

This infrastructure upgrade aligns with previous announcements by the Harare City Council and its private partners, such as Helcraw Water, to invest in the water and sanitation sector.