Prospects of prepaid smart water metering in Harare, Zimbabwe

Abstract

Dilapidated water distribution networks and water theft have resulted in non-revenue water (NRW) being between 40% and 60% of available supplies, yet Harare Water (a department under the City of Harare responsible for water purification and distribution) is struggling to collect meaningful water revenue from the residents that can be used to finance water supply. This paper examines the prospects of adopting prepaid smart water metering (PSWM) technology in Harare as a strategy to reduce NRW and improving water revenue collection. The study assumes a case study approach that uses qualitative methods. Secondary data were mainly used and this was supported by direct observation and unstructured interviews. Data were analysed through comparative and content analysis. It emerges from the study that PSWM has a potential to reduce high percentages of NRW and boost water revenue collection in Harare. However, the city is struggling financially, thus its capacity to install and maintain the system is compromised. This is aggravated by the frequent power shortages experienced in Harare. It is recommended that Harare Water should implement the prepaid smart water metering technology in one of the affluent suburbs and evaluate its merits and demerits before the system is extended to the rest of the city.

Keywords:

• Harare Water
• non-revenue water
• prepaid smart water metering
• urban water supply
• water revenue collection

JEL classification:

• L95
• Q25