Chitungwiza's crumbled reality: Women's daily burd...

Chitungwiza's crumbled reality: Women's daily burden

Philemon Jambaya

Zim Now Editor

In the sprawling township of Chitungwiza, a place that should be a vibrant hub of life, women are locked in a daily struggle against the relentless decay of basic infrastructure. The burdens of overflowing sewage, crippling water shortages, and a treacherous road network weigh heavily on their shoulders, transforming everyday life into a constant battle for survival. These aren't mere inconveniences; they are a crushing reality that shapes their lives, limits their opportunities, and erodes their dignity.

The air in many parts of Chitungwiza is thick with the stench of raw sewage, a constant reminder of the municipality's systemic failure. For women, this is a daily assault on their senses and a grave threat to their families' health. "We live in constant fear of disease," says Tendai Mtandwa, a mother of three from Unit L, her voice laced with anxiety. "The sewage flows like river , and our children play in it. How can we protect them?"

Water scarcity compounds the problem, forcing women to embark on arduous journeys in search of this basic necessity. "We wake up before dawn to fetch water," explains Rudo Chakanyuka, a vendor from Zengeza 1, her eyes weary. "By the time we get back, we're exhausted, and our day has barely begun. We can't even maintain basic hygiene." The lack of reliable water impacts every aspect of their lives. "It's impossible to cook properly, to wash clothes, to keep our homes clean," laments Mai Chipo, a grandmother raising her grandchildren in Unit A. "We're constantly worried about our health and the health of our children."

The dilapidated road network further isolates women and limits their economic opportunities. Pothole-ridden roads make it difficult to access markets, schools, and healthcare facilities. "Traveling is a nightmare," says Thandiwe Ndlovu, a small-scale trader, her frustration palpable. "Buses are unreliable, and kombis are expensive. We spend hours trying to get to the market, and by the time we arrive, we're too tired to work." The poor roads not only hinder their ability to earn a living but also jeopardize their safety. "Walking home in the dark is dangerous," says Nyasha, a student, her voice trembling. "The roads are poorly lit, and there are potholes everywhere. We're afraid of being attacked or injured."

The women of Chitungwiza feel abandoned by the authorities, their pleas for help falling on deaf ears. "We've complained so many times, but nothing changes," says Alice Kuveya, a community leader, her voice filled with a mix of anger and despair. "They don't seem to care about our suffering. We're tired of living like this. We deserve better."

"Sometimes, I just want to give up," says Sibo, a young mother struggling to raise her children in Unit H. "The stress is unbearable."

"We are not asking for much, just the basic things that every human being deserves," says Tsitsi, a local nurse, "Clean water, working sewage, and safe roads, that's it."

"It's not just about us," says Tariro, a teacher in the area, "It's about the future of our children. How can they thrive in these conditions?"

These women's voices are a powerful testament to the daily struggles faced by many in Zimbabwe's urban areas. The challenges they face are not just about infrastructure; they're about dignity, health, and the right to a decent life