A heated debate unfolded in Parliament this week over the potential privatization of urban water provision, with the Government declaring that private sector involvement could improve efficiency and service delivery. Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Hon. Ziyambi Ziyambi stated that local authorities have “dismally failed” to deliver clean and safe water, prompting a shift toward privately managed systems.
“The billing system is in shambles,” the Minister noted, arguing that private companies could help eliminate dependency on public funds and streamline purification processes. He emphasized that regulations would be put in place to protect citizens, assuring that access to water would remain a right—not a luxury.
While the proposal aligns with global trends, some lawmakers raised concerns about equity and affordability, especially for low-income households.