KEY POINTS
- Experts warn of a cholera outbreak due to water shortages.
- Lawmakers urge a disaster declaration to secure urgent aid.
- Outdated infrastructure worsens cholera risk in Zimbabwe.
Health experts have sounded an alarm over the likelihood of a cholera outbreak in Harare and Bulawayo. This forecast was attributed to the bad water conditions in these areas. Even though authorities declared an end to the cholera outbreak in July, they failed to resolve the root cause of the disease. Experts earnestly request that the government declare the cities’ water shortage a state of disaster to attract foreign aid and protect the lives of the people.
According to a report by Newsday, health experts also stressed the importance of securing foreign currency to purchase chemicals to treat the water in Harare. The residents have not been able to access clean water for weeks. Also, according to Harare Residents Trust coordinator Precious Shumba, government investment in water, sanitation, and hygiene programs is vital to preventing disease outbreaks.
A Recurring Problem
Zimbabwe has experienced countless cholera outbreaks in the past. The most recent one started in February 2023, resulting in 34, 549 suspected cases and claiming over 700 precious lives. In 2008, the country experienced one of Africa’s most devastating outbreaks, leading to 4,000 deaths. The Gwayi-Shangani Dam project provides hope for a long-term solution in Bulawayo but delays in construction have hindered progress.
Health officials emphasized that without timely infrastructure upgrades, another wave of waterborne disease could emerge.
Calls for Government Action Amid Crisis
Zanu PF lawmaker Rita Ndlovu raised concerns about Harare and Bulawayo’s rapidly escalating water problems during a parliament session. She pleaded with the government to place great importance on investing in the cities’ water systems. She also laid emphasis on the need to repair and improve the outdated water infrastructure.
If the government decides to turn deaf ears to the warnings of these health experts, millions of Zimbabweans may once again face the gruesome impact of another cholera outbreak.
