Effects of population growth on urban water and sanitation service delivery, an investiation of Harare Metropolitan Province.

Abstract

This research looked at the effects of population growth on urban water and sanitation service delivery in Harare Metropolitan Province. The main objectives of the research were: to investigate the effects of population growth on urban water and sanitation service delivery, challenges being faced and strategies in place to address the problem. The study was qualitative in nature, both primary and secondary data sources were used. Interviews and field observations were the main data collection tools used. The sample population was drawn from Harare residential suburbs, 18 of the city’s high, medium and low density municipal authorities were interviewed. Some key informants for the study were stakeholders from Harare water authority and department of public works. The results highlighted that there was a direct link between population growth and service delivery, challenges being faced were population growth, pressure on resources, lack of funds and adequate resources to address the growing population. Strategies put in place include partnership with organisations, source funding from China as well as public education and awareness. The study concluded that regardless of the challenges being faced there is urgent need to address water and sanitation service delivery problems within the capital in order to save lives with the growing population. It thus recommends that there is need to address population growth in Harare, reconstruction of water works and creation on national waste management policy.