By Admore Mbonda in Chinhoyi
Mashonaland West – A wave of stomach ailments has sparked alarm in Chinhoyi, with residents blaming the town’s tap water and fearing a resurgence of cholera amid ongoing heavy rains.
The gastrointestinal issues, which have become increasingly common since the rainy season began, have left families deeply worried about their health and safety. Mashonaland West has been a cholera hotspot for the past two years, fueling fears that the current water crisis could spiral into another outbreak.
“We’re heartbroken to see our children suffer because of contaminated water,” lamented a local mother, echoing widespread frustration among residents who now struggle to find clean drinking water.
The Combined Residents Association (CRA) has taken up the cause, with chairman Tendai Musonza calling on Chinhoyi Municipality to address the issue urgently. “This is a life-threatening situation. The water quality from our taps must be addressed immediately,” he urged.
Despite these calls, Chinhoyi Municipality insists the tap water is safe. Acting Town Clerk Engr Simon Marara assured residents that regular laboratory tests confirm the water meets safety standards. However, residents remain unconvinced, turning instead to bottled water—a trend that has seen a surge in demand but raises concerns about the quality of some unregulated products.
Health professionals have joined the outcry, warning of the risks associated with unsafe water during the rainy season. Dr Munashe Chimene, a local physician, emphasized, “This is the prime season for waterborne diseases. Immediate action is needed to secure safe drinking water.”
Adding to the urgency, nearby Kariba district recently recorded 107 cases of Cholera in a single month, amplifying fears in Chinhoyi.
As skepticism mounts and medical warnings grow louder, Chinhoyi’s residents and health advocates are united in their demand for swift action to prevent a potential health crisis.
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