SYDNEY MUBAIWA
GOKWE- Gokwe Town Council has positively responded to the government’s clarion call of addressing sanitation through the construction of a pay toilet near the town’s bus terminus.
Last week, the local authority commissioned the state of the art facility which was constructed using revenue from rate payers.
The development comes at a time when authorities raised concerns over open defecation in the Midlands town, risking the spread of waterborne infections
Commissioning the facility, Gokwe South District Development Coordinator Netsai Mushauri encouraged the residents to continue paying their dues for continued efficient service delivery.
She urged residents to utilise the pay toilet and avoid open defecation.
Acting Gokwe Town Secretary Alexander Nyandoro said the facility was constructed to address health challenges affecting the Midlands town.
The council will be charging $0.50 for one to use the ablution facility.
“The state of the art facility is not just about answering nature’s call but is about dignity and well-being, convenience and hygiene for every resident, visitors, travelers, vendors among others. The facility was constructed at a total of US$54 000.
“The facility directly addresses a historical public sanitation infrastructure deficit in the high profile zone. It also reflects the local authority’s progressive values in providing essential infrastructure that enhances quality of life and supports public amenities,” he said.
Zimbabwe’s constitution states under Section 71 that every citizen has a right to a healthy and clean environment.
Vendors in Gokwe Town have applauded the council for the construction of the ablution facility at the busy rank.
