THE smart water metering project is gathering pace, with replacement pipes now in place and ready for distribution.

For decades, the Harare City Council has been struggling to provide adequate clean water to millions of residents in the capital.

However, the public-private partnership involving the government of Zimbabwe, Harare City Council and two private companies, Laison Technology and Helcraw Electrical is set to change the situation.

So far, a pilot project has seen 15 000 households benefitting from a smart metering initiative which is set to be rolled out across the city.

The partnership will also see the upgrading of water infrastructure.

“We are working together with private players in the supply of water in Harare, but the project will be rolled out throughout the country. We are happy that the contractor is working tirelessly to make sure that the project comes to fruition. We are starting from areas that are in need and the project has already started and our teams are on the ground.  We want to replace these pipes, as you are aware that the pipes were installed decades ago,” Harare Mayor Councillor Jacob Mafume

The ZBC News visited Helcraw this Monday, the contractor in charge, where large consignments of replacement pipes were seen on-site awaiting dispatch.

The Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Honourable Daniel Garwe described the initiative as key to improving water system efficiency and public accountability.

“The government and the Harare City Council are working together to make sure that residents are provided with clean water. We have also contracted private players because we value their contribution in service delivery.”

The project comprises three key components: replacing outdated asbestos and zinc piping, installing smart water meters, and rehabilitating infrastructure at Morton Jaffray Water Works.