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Writes Engineer Jacob Kudzayi Mutisi
Either you don’t get water at all or you receive contaminated water and it is time for residents to take action. With alarming reports of toxins contaminating the city’s water supply, the health and safety of millions hang in the balance. As residents grapple with the reality of unsafe drinking water, it has become clear that the City of Harare must be held accountable for its negligence.
A recent study revealed that the water supplied to Harare is laced with dangerous toxins, endangering the health of approximately 3 million residents. These toxins have been linked to severe health issues, including liver and central nervous system diseases. The situation is dire, with many residents reporting visible impurities and foul smells in the water. It is no coincidence that the prevalence of cancer and other severe illnesses is rising among those who have consumed this contaminated water.
Residents are caught in a tragic cycle. They are advised against drinking borehole water and tap water due to contamination risks, yet many still resort to these sources out of desperation. The lack of clean, reliable water has forced families to choose between unsafe options, leading to a public health crisis. The emotional toll of watching loved ones suffer from cancer or other waterborne diseases is unbearable. We all know someone affected by these issues, and the community is left wondering how can this be allowed to continue?
Harare’s mayor insists that the city’s water is safe, but residents are skeptical. They have lived through countless experiences of illness and despair, only to be met with empty assurances from city officials. It is time for the people of Harare to challenge this narrative and demand accountability. A lawsuit against the City of Harare could be a powerful step toward seeking justice for those harmed by this crisis.
The government has a responsibility to provide safe drinking water to its citizens. The continued negligence is not just a failure of infrastructure, it is a violation of the basic human right to access clean water. Residents have voiced their concerns and petitioned local authorities, yet little has changed. This inaction has left many feeling powerless and frustrated, but legal action could change the tide.
A lawsuit could serve multiple purposes. it would not only demand accountability but also raise awareness about the severity of the situation. By bringing this issue to the forefront, residents can mobilise support from local and international organisations focused on water quality and public health. Increased pressure could force the city to address the underlying issues in its water supply and invest in necessary infrastructure to ensure clean water for all.
Harare’s residents have waited long enough for change. The time for action is now. It is imperative that citizens unite in the fight for their right to clean water. By standing together and considering legal options, they can send a clear message to the City of Harare, the health and well-being of its citizens cannot be compromised any longer.
It is time for Hararians to take a stand against the water crisis plaguing their city. They deserve safe drinking water and the assurance that their government prioritises their health. Through collective action, including legal avenues, the residents can work toward a future where clean water is not just a dream but a reality for all.
At this rate, we are all going to die of cancer.
