Learners from schools in Gwanda were sent back home on Monday morning as authorities feared a health crisis after water supplies were cut off in the mining town owing to a payment dispute between the local authority and the Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company (ZETDC).
Gwanda and Beitbridge Municipalities owe the power utility a combined $260 million in unpaid electricity bills resulting in ZETDC cutting off power supplies which has affected the pumping of water since Thursday last week.
In an interview with Gwanda Hospital acting medical superintendent, Dr Blessing Gwarimbo who is also the District Medical Officer, said as the ministry of health, guided by Covid-19 protocols, recommend the closure of schools.