The Zimbabwean government is set to revolutionize water management by installing prepaid water meters nationwide, starting with Harare. This initiative aims to promote responsible water consumption, improve efficiency, and boost revenue collection. According to Local Government and Public Works Minister Daniel Garwe, the program will begin in two to three weeks, targeting high-density suburbs in Harare, including satellite towns like Norton, Chitungwiza, and Ruwa.

In the initial phase, 600,000 prepaid meters will be installed across major cities, with 320,000 allocated to Harare and the rest distributed to Bulawayo, Gweru, Mutare, and Victoria Falls. The second phase will cover the remaining towns and cities across the country. This move follows the government’s signing of contracts with the City of Harare, Hangzhou Liaison Technology Company, and Helcraw Electrical under a Build, Operate and Transfer (BOT) model.

Under this model, private companies will handle raw water purification, distribution, billing, and wastewater management, while smart meters will be installed at residential premises. The introduction of prepaid meters will empower residents to monitor and control their water consumption, promoting a more sustainable approach to resource management. Harare will also benefit from a new water treatment plant as part of the project.

The idea of prepaid water meters has been around for over 10 years, but implementation stalled due to public resistance and institutional delays. With the rollout set to begin soon, the government is optimistic that this initiative will improve water management and reduce waste. By promoting responsible water consumption, the prepaid meter system aims to address the country’s water challenges and enhance revenue collection for water services.

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