Urban expansion and emergent water security threats in Zimbabwe: challenges of water governance Dangamvura, Gimboki township in Mutare.

Abstract

The purpose of the study is to assess urban expansion and water challenges in particular Gimboki Township in the provision of clean and portable water. Gimboki is new residental areas in Mutare, Manicaland province. The issue of water began over years ago, but still there are countless factors hindering water services. The study included sampling of the household in Gimboki Township. The research included the use questionnaires, literature review, site observation and telephone interview as a data collection tools. In parallel with the literature survey, collection of basic background data was obtained from journals, water reports and approved thesis from internet, for site observation collection of data was done by taking photos and for telephone interviews data was collected through notes writing. The study used the combination of qualitative and quantitative approach. The study includes combining the findings of several studies and this data was critically analysed using, notes writing, tables and graphs. Through the distribution of questionnaires to members of the residents it was confirmed that there was water problem. For most people the desire was to have access to water. The community’s access to water is severely limited due to their socio-economic status. Lack of participation is another socio-economic factor that deprives people from receiving water services, people in this area are poorly informed on almost aspect of water services. The literature search showed that there are also other factors contributing to water problems, which includes lack of capital and funds by the government to provide access to water. The increasing population was also causing serious depletion in water’s availability and this was also causing an impact on the environment and economy.