Sewage crisis ­overwhelms homes at Osire

Phillipus Josef
Residents living near the Osire refugee camp are enduring unbearable conditions as overflowing sewage continues to flood their homes, with little to no intervention from authorities.
Sylvia Mutjavikua, a local teacher and resident, told Network Media Hub on Saturday that wastewater from blocked drains is seeping into homes and kitchens, turning daily life into a struggle against persistent, filthy water.
“Families are forced to scoop out dirty water with buckets because maintenance teams rarely respond,” she said. “If we knew how to reach the Ministry of Works, maybe someone would help us.” Mutjavikua emphasized that residents feel abandoned and helpless amid the growing crisis.
She explained that the drains have not been serviced for months, and the situation has worsened due to a rising population in the area. “We don’t know where to cook or eat. The water comes from the shower straight into the whole house,” she lamented.
Concerned for their health and safety, many residents are now considering leaving the area altogether. - [email protected]