Lupane Residents Demand Action on Local Service Delivery
Loraine Phiri
The Lupane Women Leaders Sounding Board (WLSB) hosted a meeting on Thursday to address critical issues plaguing the town, including water shortages, a failing sewage system, and poor road conditions. The meeting, facilitated by WLSB members, Siphilisiwe Moyo, Nobuhle Nyathi, Samantha Telma Longwe and Talent Tshuma aimed to empower Lupane residents to hold local authorities accountable for these essential services.
Residents voiced their frustrations over the water crisis characterized by high bills, inconsistent supply, and unequal distribution. With some areas going for weeks without running water, while others with no access at all. This lack of water not only strained wallets but also forced residents to travel long distances for water, creating sanitation issues due to a scarcity of proper facilities. The meeting also exposed the burden placed on residents in wards without water pipes, who were told to shoulder the cost of installation themselves. Adding insult to injury, residents reported inaccurate billing by ZINWA, the water authority, with assistance only available after complaints.
The discussion on sanitation revealed a more alarming situation. Lupane lacks a proper sewer system altogether. This has led to overflowing septic tanks contaminating groundwater due to improper sewage management. The unsuitable soil conditions in the area further complicate the problem, as septic tanks require constant maintenance and pose health risks. Despite repeated promises, the local board has failed to take any action.
Residents also highlighted the dangers posed by the town’s deteriorating roads.
“Some areas completely lack proper roads, with only pathways available. Existing tarred roads are poorly maintained, often half-covered in dirt. The absence of essential safety features like zebra crossings, signage, and speed bumps further jeopardizes the safety of pedestrians and motorists alike. Uneven surfaces, deep drainage ditches, and a lack of streetlights make nighttime travel particularly hazardous,” said a resident.
The meeting concluded with a call to action. Residents demanded that authorities take immediate steps to improve service delivery. Proposed solutions included installing solar backup systems for boreholes, drilling new boreholes, and halting the allocation of residential stands until proper water services are established. Residents also emphasized the need for ZINWA to be included in community meetings to improve transparency and address billing concerns.
Regarding sanitation, the community called for expedited repairs to the sewer system, prioritizing areas with available materials. Temporary solutions like paid services for emptying septic tanks were also proposed. Inclusivity was a key theme, with residents demanding to be part of discussions on sewer system solutions. Recognizing the need for additional resources, the meeting highlighted the importance of seeking partnerships with organizations to secure funding for improved sanitation infrastructure. Finally, promoting proper waste disposal practices was seen as a crucial step towards a healthier community.
The poor state of roads demanded a multi-pronged approach. Residents called for the installation of streetlights, road signs, and speed bumps to enhance safety. The construction of new roads and bridges where necessary, along with the rehabilitation and maintenance of existing roads, were also seen as essential measures.
The Lupane WLSB meeting underscored the importance of citizen engagement in ensuring access to basic necessities. By raising awareness and demanding accountability from local authorities, the community can work towards a Lupane with reliable water, a functioning sewer system, and safe roads. The meeting also emphasized the need for policy changes that prioritize the needs of the people, promote transparency, and hold service providers accountable.