The determinant of non-revenue water in Shurungwi town:a case of Makusha residential area

Abstract

Non-revenue water levels are reported to be averaging around 50% in Zimbabwe which is in contrast to the 25% level accepted by the World Bank. This study sought to establish the determinants of non-revenue water in Makusha residential area, Shurugwi. Although non-revenue water studies have been extensively conducted globally, there are somewhat a few empirical studies which focus on smaller towns in developing countries. A questionnaire survey of a 110 randomly selected households, a direct observation exercise, and key informant interviews were employed to collect data. Research findings reflect that the town council's system of estimating water consumption encourages negligent water usage. Moreover, incidences of water theft and leakages are rampant. The study recommends that the town council must conduct regular monitoring to ensure cut-off users do not practice water theft. Furthermore, the town council may need to incentivize residents to ensure that leakages and illegal water usage are reported promptly