Water, Sanitation and Hygiene Responses to COVID-19 by Business, Society and Institutions in the City of Mutare

Abstract

This article examines the Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) responses by the business community, society and institutions to the outbreak of COVID-19 in the City of Mutare, evaluating the challenges being faced and then identifying the implications to urban planning practice. A qualitative approach was adopted, making use of interviews with participants from the business community, society and government institutions and document analysis as data collection instruments. A descriptive research design was employed to guide the research. Findings reveal that while Mutare is not experiencing a serious water crisis, Dangamvura and Chikanga Phase 2 residential places in the city are experiencing water shortages. Results also indicate that the outbreak of COVID-19 has not caused any significant changes to the way the business community and society operate, although they have participated in dealing with the pandemic. Institutions have also responded by mobilising other players in monitoring the activities henceforth. It is concluded that WASH has a significant contribution to the solutions to prevent the spread of COVID-19. It is recommended that WASH services should be planned for and upgraded in proportion to the growth.