Environment Ministry committed to Byo residents’ health

THE Ministry of Environment, Water and Climate is committed to developing the health and social well-being of the people of Bulawayo, an official has said.

Speaking at the launch of the Bulawayo Water and Sewerage Services Improvement Project (BWSSIP) in Bulawayo yesterday, deputy director of water resources, planning and management in the ministry, Mr Robert Mutepfa said the project is expected to improve Bulawayo’s municipal water supply and sanitation services.

“The project will instal solar photovoltaic water pumps at Magwegwe reservoir in place of diesel powered generators. The whole city’s public latrines, sewer reticulation and treatment works will be rehabilitated.

“This is indeed a welcome intervention since a healthy nation will ensure a healthy workforce, hence high productivity,” said Mr Mutepfa.

He said the BWSSIP would provide the city with adaption tools which will help address effects of climate change without polluting the environment.

“The measures will involve conservation of water sources, especially water springs, groundwater recharge points and river catchments. Reduction of non-revenue water and enhancing effluent quality control at wastewater treatment facilities will be done to protect water bodies.

“This will protect the environment from pollution. We will offer educational programmes on economical water uses at household level,” said Mr Mutepfa.

The BWSSIP focuses on rehabilitating and enhancing the city’s water supply system as well as strengthening institutional capacity.

Mr Mutepfa said the project would also enhance service delivery, efficiency and improvement of environmental sanitation.

“The project will be achieved by providing safe water and ensuring safe disposal of sewage, improving the efficiency of water and sanitation infrastructure and enhancing operational and financial efficiency of service delivery,” he said.

Mr Mutepfa said different stakeholders would be involved in the design and implementation of the project.

He said at the end of the project, the city would experience improved household access to municipal water, reduced environmental pollution from raw sewage and improved utility efficiency.

“I wish to thank the African Development Bank for making this project a reality.

“I urge the City of Bulawayo to take advantage of the opportunity as it will go a long way in solving the current water and sewerage challenges being faced by the city,” said Mr Mutepfa.