By Correspondent
In 2016 the African Development Bank (AFDB) approved a 2 million pounds facility to upgrade Marondera’s water plant.
The money was released in tranches with the last one of US$520 000 coming in 2020.
The funds were divided into two phases, with phase one gobbling US$477 000, while phase two chewed US$ 43 000.
Asked about the funds Marondera Mayor Chengetai Murowa was clear.
Murowa said the money was used for major upgrades which include:
-Upgrading of the existing water treatment plant.
-Installation of back-up pumps and building a new laboratory for testing water and water flow measuring.
-A new chlorinator, new aluminum dosing pump and revamping of Elmswood ponds to avoid direct raw sewer into Rufaro Dam the town’s main source of drinking water.
Murowa added that Devolution funds complemented the loan.
The Devolution funds were used to:
-rehabilitate rapid sand filter at Longlands treatment plant.
-Install water modular tanks-Rehabilitate sewer pumping station.
Nothing On The Ground
However on the ground, among residents, the money has had no impact, water remains a challenge.
In snap survey carried out by this publication, there are mixed reactions from residents.
Marondera Urban Business Associations Chairperson Mr Emmanuel Danha says Council is all talk.
“Council should spend more time on ground, delivering services to ratepayers.
“They have been talking about water challenges for a decade but nothing has changed, we want results.
“After the AFDB injection Marondera is now looking for more funds.
The local authority recently held an investor indaba specifically to address the same situation.
It seeks to get US$13 million to upgrade the same water and sewer system.
However, some residents have lost heart despite such ventures.
“Holding investment indaba was a noble idea, as evidenced by number of local investors who showed interest in upgrading water and sewer system,
“Hopefully this time around council will put to an end water crisis,” said one resident.