THE Zimbabwe National Water Authority has reviewed upwards tariffs of both treated and raw water.

Zinwa, which mainly supplies water to small towns and growth points, last increased tariffs in November last year.

Government in 2006 allowed Zinwa to take over all water functions countrywide, a decision that was later reversed following protests from local authorities.

However, Zinwa still controls the water and sewer infrastructure of some councils such as Gwanda.

In a statement yesterday Zinwa said the increase is with effect from January 1.

The latest water tariff hike approved by the Lands, Agriculture Fisheries Water and Rural Development Ministry will see residents in high-density areas paying $73 for water between 1 and 10 cubic metres.

Government departments will pay $116 for water between 1 and 10 cubic metres and about $155 for 50 cubic metres and above.
Mines will pay $194, per cubic metre while businesses will pay $107 for 1 to 125 cubic metres and $194 for over 50 cubic metres.

“Pursuant to the interim tariff announced in November, 2021, the Zimbabwe National Water Authority (Zinwa) wishes to advise its valued clients and stakeholders that it has reviewed tariffs with effect from January 1, 2022. The new tariffs are applicable to both clear (treated) and raw water,” read the statement from the water authority.

Zinwa attributed the hike to the increase in the cost of fuel, water treatment chemicals among others.

“The revision of the tariffs is in response to the sharp increases in the cost of key water resources management inputs such as electricity, fuel, spares, water treatment chemicals and other obligations in recent months.

“In coming up with the tariff, the Authority was guided by the need to strike a delicate balance between service provision and affordability of water,” said Zinwa.