Martin Muleya
For women in the Gimboki area of Dangamvura, the introduction of water kiosks has been a game-changer. No longer do they have to rely on expensive and unreliable water barons, nor do they have to endure the physical and emotional trauma of collecting water from the nearby boreholes.
Prior to the introduction of water kiosks, women in the area were forced to spend a staggering $30 per month to have someone fill a 1000- litre drum from the water barons. This was not only a financial burden but also a logistical nightmare.
But the borehole, which was meant to be a reliable source of water had become a hub of harassment and abuse. Women who ventured there to collect water were subjected to physical assaults, insults and even sexual abuse.
“The water problem was a nightmare to us. Whenever we needed water we would go to the nearest borehole but while there we would be subjected to physical assaults, insults and even sexual abuse. So at the end of the day, I realized that it was better that I hire a person whom I would pay US$1 for four buckets to fill with water because I am still breastfeeding a child. So I would use a total of US$24 a month to fill my drum that I would fill with water after every two weeks,” explained Vongai Masanganise a mother of two minor children.
She highlighted that with the introduction of water kiosks everything was going to change.
“We are so grateful for the water kiosks. We no longer have to spend our hard-earned money on expensive water and we no longer have to fear for our safety when collecting water. The water kiosks will bring back our dignity as women. We will not be treated like animals and we will no longer be forced to endure abuse and harassment,” weighed in Samantha Manhombori.
City of Mutare Town Clerk Blessing Chafesuka while addressing Gimboki residents last Tuesday highlighted that council made a resolution to provide water to the occupier in Gimboki area.
“In phase one as council we are ready to have individual connections on each house.
“Each household is going to receive a tag that you will use to deposit your money and then use it to draw water from the kiosks. The tariffs will bring on your tags has a component of fixed charge but our water on average 1000 litres will be having a fixed charge of $1.65. But you must pay US$11.00 which will translate to 5000 litres. You will be using your tag until you have exhausted your 5000 litres.
“When you exhaust your first 5000 litres that is when you will be required to pay $1.65 for every 1000 litres of water you may require,” he noted.
Chafesuka also noted that council was looking forward to install at least 15 water, with six having been installed.
The water kiosks will not only bring relief to women in Gimboki area but will also empower them. They will be able to manage their households and care for their families without the burden of expensive and unreliable water supply.
