The City of Harare has admitted to discharging sludge near homes in Kuwadzana Extension following an outcry from residents.
The admission came after residents complained about thick, black sludge flowing from a water tank supplying homes in the area.
In a statement issued on Sunday, 30 August, the council said it was carrying out a reservoir-cleaning exercise, and that the affected houses were located near the desludging valve, resulting in the sludge flowing along the roads.
The council assured residents that the sludge was not harmful, saying it consisted of residue from water-treatment chemicals that accumulate over time.
“Reference is made to a statement we issued on 28 August 2026 on cleaning of water tanks in Kuwadzana.
“We have taken note of pictures and videos of sludge coming out of tanks which are being cleared in the area.
“The City of Harare advises residents and, in particular, those in Kuwadzana Extension that the reservoir cleaning exercise is continuing and water distribution in the area will only resume on completion of the task tomorrow, 31 August 2026.
“Unfortunately, some houses are located around our dislodging valve and sludge is flowing along roads.
“However, the sludge is not harmful but composed of residue from water treatment chemicals which accumulate over time.
“Sludge settles at the bottom of tanks and accumulates over time and needs to be cleared from time to time, which is the exact process happening in Kuwadzana.
“We are working to make sure we clear the sludge in the shortest possible time. We now have a team dedicated to cleaning reservoirs.
“Any inconveniences caused are sincerely regretted.”
