Camwater’s Ongoing Battle Against Water Theft and Illegal Connections in Cameroon
Camwater, the water authority in Cameroon, has dismantled an illegal water network that degraded water supply, leading to disruptions. The company has warned against water theft, which is prevalent, especially in Douala and Yaoundé. Water meter thefts have surged, causing financial strain on customers, urging the need for public cooperation to combat these issues.
Camwater, the organization responsible for the production and distribution of drinking water in Cameroon, has successfully dismantled a large illegal water network that compromised the nation’s water supply. These unauthorized connections were causing a decrease in water pressure and negatively impacting service quality for consumers, resulting in frequent supply disruptions.
The company has issued a reminder to the public that water theft is both illegal and detrimental to the community as a whole. Camwater has pledged to implement stringent measures against violators, who will face identification and prosecution in accordance with the law.
Additionally, Camwater has noted a disturbing increase in incidents of water meter theft. In 2022 alone, there were over 10,000 reported cases of stolen water meters throughout the country, with Douala being the most affected area, accounting for nearly 3,000 thefts. Yaoundé follows closely with over 2,600 cases reported. The West region reported 2,110 stolen meters, while the East region experienced the least impact, with only 40 cases.
Evidence shows a drastic escalation in water meter theft. In Douala, thefts rose from 310 in 2018 to 927 in 2022. Yaoundé experienced an even sharper increase from 44 cases to 1,316 during the same period. The Littoral region, which reported no thefts in 2018, has now documented 80 cases.
According to Camwater, the primary motive behind these stolen meters is the copper components, which are being targeted. This rampant theft has resulted in substantial water losses, as well as increased financial burdens on customers, who are compelled to acquire replacement meters, further straining their household finances.
Company representatives are calling for heightened public awareness and collaboration to mitigate water theft and fraud. They stress that such actions jeopardize equitable access to clean drinking water for all citizens.
In conclusion, Camwater is actively combating illegal water connections and rampant meter thefts that are significantly affecting water supply and service quality in Cameroon. The increases in theft not only lead to financial burdens for consumers but also threaten the equitable distribution of potable water. Camwater has committed to stringent enforcement measures and calls for public cooperation in addressing these challenges.
Original Source: www.cameroon-concord.com
