BY PHESHEYA IAN KUNENE
MBABANE – The Eswatini Water Services Corporation (EWSC) has made significant strides in implementing its prepaid metering system, with the pilot phase now underway at uMdoni Estates, Ezulwini.
This phase is a critical component of EWSC’s broader initiative to enhance water management throughout the country.
Hlobile Jele, the Specialist in PR and Communications at EWSC, explained that the prepaid metering system provides residents with greater control over their water usage.
“The prepaid metering journey has officially commenced at uMdoni Estates, and we are receiving positive feedback from the community. This system allows residents to track their water consumption in real time and pay for what they use,” she noted.
The uMdoni Estates pilot is a key milestone in the national rollout of the prepaid metering initiative, with plans for expansion into other communities soon.
“The pilot program is vital for collecting valuable feedback from residents, which will assist us in refining the system before we extend it to additional areas,” she emphasized.
According to Jele, the prepaid system brings numerous benefits, both for EWSC and its customers.
One of the key advantages, she added, is the increased transparency it offers. “Residents now have the ability to track their consumption and avoid unexpected charges,” she pointed out. “This control allows them to make informed decisions about their water use, fostering responsible consumption.”
For EWSC, the system is expected to streamline operations by reducing manual readings, improving revenue collection, and reducing non-revenue water.
“Prepaid meters ensure accurate billing and help cut administrative costs associated with traditional billing methods,” Jele remarked.
EWSC has been actively engaging with uMdoni Estates residents to ensure they fully understand the new system. “Our team has been on-site, hosting information sessions and providing demonstrations to help residents navigate the system,” Jele added. “We want them to feel confident and comfortable using the prepaid meters.”
Additionally, EWSC has equipped residents with guides and access to the EWSC App, which allows them to easily monitor their usage and purchase water credits.
“We are not just installing meters; we are offering ongoing support and education to ensure residents are well-equipped to manage their water consumption,” she concluded.
After the successful implementation of the uMdoni Estates pilot, EWSC plans to expand the prepaid metering system to other communities.
“The success of the uMdoni Estates pilot will shape our next steps,” Jele stated. “We will incorporate the feedback we’ve gathered and use it to improve future rollouts, ensuring that each community is prepared for the transition to prepaid meters.”
The phased approach will allow EWSC to tailor the system to each community’s unique needs.
“We will continue to monitor the performance of the prepaid system and make necessary adjustments based on the feedback and data from residents,” Jele confirmed.
As the project moves forward, EWSC is committed to maintaining open communication with the public. “We encourage all residents to stay informed through our official communication channels,” Jele said. “We are also available to address any questions or concerns through our customer service lines.”
With the prepaid metering project gaining momentum, EWSC is working to provide a more efficient and transparent water service for all residents of Eswatini.
