CAMA faults water tariff hike
Government has hiked water tariffs
he Consumers Association of Malawi (CAMA), has criticized government’s decision to raise water board tariffs arguing that it adds more pressure on Malawians.
Speaking to the media, CAMA Executive Director John Kapito said the timing of the increase is difficult for consumers.
“The announcement that government has increased water board tariffs is a challenge to Malawians at a time when consumers are going through one of the highest cost of living and at a time Malawians are paying one of the worst type of taxes,” he said.
Kapito was reacting to the approved tariff adjustments by government which affect five water boards in the country, namely Blantyre Water Board, Southern Region Water Board, Central Region Water Board, Lilongwe Water Board and Northern Region Water Board.
The adjustments range from 11 percent to 69.99 percent and have been attributed to rising costs of energy, water treatment chemicals, and maintenance materials.
He noted that tax revenue should be sufficient to support institutions such as the Blantyre Water Board to deliver services effectively.
Heowever, he conceded that adjustments to tariffs may be necessary, provided they are implemented reasonably.
He therefore expressed concern that despite previous tariff adjustments, service delivery has not improved as there are still ongoing water supply interruptions, poor water quality, and billing irregularities as key challenges.
Kapito further urged authorities to consult consumers before making such decisions to maintain trust between service providers and the public.
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