Govt hails Matapi sewer rehab efforts

GOVERNMENT has applauded a non-governmental organisation, Oxfam, for partnering the City of Harare in the rehabilitation of the sewer reticulation system at Mbare Matapi flats.

Oxfam is the leading agency in the current humanitarian responses to the typhoid outbreak in Harare.

The project initiated by Oxfam is aimed at curbing the persistent flow of raw effluent in the flats.

Speaking after a tour of the flats last week, Minister of State for Harare Metropolitan Provincial Affairs Miriam Chikukwa, commended the work done by Oxfam and Harare City Council to improve the sewer system at Matapi Flats.

“On behalf of Harare Metropolitan Province, thank you so much. The health of children at Matapi was compromised.

“We must build safe homes where people can live comfortably. When we have new developments, we must ensure that people living in these flats benefit ahead of those on the housing waiting list.

“Investors are welcome, the duty of providing accommodation is for all of us no matter where you come from,” she said.

She added that the Harare City Council must not be reactive, but proactive in health matters.

Oxfam country director Mr Machinda Marongwe said Oxfam was part of the Emergency Strategic Working Group chaired by the Ministry of Health in partnership with UNICEF that is responsible for providing strategic and tactical support to ongoing efforts to improve the health of Harare residents.

“Burst sewer pipes, and overflowing effluent resulting in unsafe water and poor sanitation are an affront to the enjoyment of the rights, to a safe environment and the health of residents,” he said.

He encouraged the municipality to increase investment in the provision of safe water, sanitation, hygiene and waste management to avoid outbreaks of water-borne diseases like typhoid.

Harare’s Director of Works Engineer Isaiah Chawatama said plans to replace Matapi block of flats were in place and the target was to build 58 blocks.

“Plans are there to replace these flats and our major target is 58 blocks because they are the most dilapidated, and if funds permit we will definitely attend to the other residential areas.

“Investors are welcome as the duty of providing accommodation is for all of us together as said by the resident minister,” said Engineer Chawatama.

Residents of Block 10 Matapi said they were grateful for the project.