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Harare is experiencing critical shortages of water treatment chemicals, impacting its ability to supply clean water to 2.5 million residents. The city has received only $381,000 of the $5.38 million allocated by the central government for essential projects.

A situation report indicates that the city has run out of several key chemicals, including ammonia and sulphuric acid, and currently has only enough chlorine for one day. Harare requires 800 megalitres of water daily but is only pumping 312 megalitres due to these shortages.

The city is facing prolonged water shortages, raising concerns about potential outbreaks of water-borne diseases. Key suppliers, including NCP Chlorchem and Sasol, have cited operational issues affecting the supply of necessary chemicals. Harare requires at least $3 million to procure the needed chemicals, primarily from South Africa.