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Message: [QUOTE="Nehanda, post: 28013, member: 2262"] People living in Harare strongly object to planned water service privatization. The changes mainly help political insiders rather than regular citizens. Local Government Ministry officials want private companies to control Harare's water systems. Their plans include transferring the city-owned Morton Jaffray Water Treatment Plant to private business interests. Both the Harare Residents Trust and Combined Harare Residents Association firmly oppose government interference with local services. They warn these actions will restrict water access for everyday people. The groups believe this privatization attempt deliberately shifts important public responsibilities to politically connected elites. Local leaders should remain free to make decisions without outside pressure. Resident organizations describe the water plant transfer as little more than authorized theft disguised as rehabilitation. This move undermines local authorities' financial stability. The Ministry claims this privatization push happens because local governments failed in their duties. Their project includes installing 650,000 prepaid water meters throughout major urban areas. Community groups point out that earlier attempts with prepaid water systems have already failed. They question whether actual service improvements matter to decision-makers. Installing prepaid meters does nothing to address deeper problems with transparency. Both city officials and central government leaders need accountability reforms before considering structural changes. Forcing water privatization creates serious health risks, according to resident associations. They criticize Mayor Jacob Mafume for supporting the service takeover without public input. The mayor proceeded without securing full council approval for these significant changes. Resident groups predict these privatization efforts will ultimately collapse, wasting public funds and endangering community health. [/QUOTE]

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