Harare is facing a severe health crisis due to untreated sewage flowing into residential areas. This problem, caused by poor management by the Harare City Council (HCC) led by the CCC, is putting citizens’ health at great risk. The worst-affected areas are Glenview, Budiriro, and Glen Norah, where sewage is running through the streets.
The unchecked flow of untreated sewage is dangerous for both public health and the environment. If not fixed quickly, it could lead to a major health crisis, forcing the Government to use valuable resources to handle outbreaks. The continuous discharge of untreated sewage can cause diseases like cholera, dysentery, and typhoid. Budiriro, Glenview, and Glen Norah are particularly vulnerable due to contaminated underground water from uncontrolled sewage flow.
According to UNICEF Zimbabwe’s 2024 Report, there were 26,708 cholera cases and 569 deaths across 62 districts, with Harare accounting for about 60% as of March 1, 2024. Harare urgently needs to replace its old sewer systems and maintain the existing ones properly. The sewage also harms aquatic ecosystems, as some of it ends up in rivers like Manyame and Lake Chivero. City officials need to take immediate action to stop this damage.
It is concerning that the CCC-led councils face such challenges but often blame the Government for mismanagement. They spend a lot on workshops and meetings, neglecting essential services, which leads to poor service delivery. This situation in Harare demands immediate and effective action to protect public health and the environment.
Positive Eye News
