Bulawayo residents largely ignorant of water utility companies, MIHR report reveals

Rumbidzai Mhlanga

A recent report by the Matabeleland Institute for Human Rights (MIHR) has exposed a concerning lack of knowledge among Bulawayo residents about the public water utility companies that govern their access to essential services.

The survey findings, released on September 2, 2024, revealed that a staggering 88.4% of residents have little to no understanding of these entities, raising serious questions about the legitimacy of the Bulawayo City Council’s (BCC) decision to establish a corporatized water utility company.

The MIHR report suggests that the BCC’s decision-making process may have violated the principles of Free, Prior, and Informed Consent (FPIC), which are fundamental to public policy development. The lack of awareness among residents could lead to uninformed and potentially harmful decisions regarding the future of water and sanitation services in the city.

The survey conducted by MIHR found that only a small minority of residents have a substantial understanding of water utility companies. This knowledge gap could result in ineffective consultations, where residents either reject or accept policies without fully grasping their implications.

The MIHR warns that meaningful public participation can only occur if residents are adequately informed and educated. “No meaningful consultation and participation will take place without the prior process of informing the residents and creating awareness to them first,” the report cautions.

In response to these findings, the MIHR has urged the BCC to prioritize public education on the water utility company policy. This includes implementing awareness programs in simple, understandable language that residents can easily grasp. The report also calls on civic society organizations to play a more active role in educating the public and ensuring that consultations are preceded by thorough awareness-raising efforts.

The MIHR suggests that media coverage should go beyond merely reporting decisions and focus on helping the public interpret the implications of these decisions. By promoting informed decision-making, the media can empower residents to actively participate in shaping the future of Bulawayo’s water and sanitation services.

The MIHR’s report highlights a significant challenge in Bulawayo’s public policy landscape. As the city continues to navigate issues related to water and sanitation, the importance of informed public participation cannot be overstated. The call for greater awareness and education is not just about fulfilling a legal obligation; it is about empowering residents to make informed decisions that will ultimately shape the future of the city.