ABSTRACT
Water supply crisis and inefficient water management are persistent challenges in most developing countries. This study examines the feasibility of integrating smart water management technologies into Bulawayo's urban infrastructure to enhance efficiency, resilience, and sustainability. Employing a mixed-method approach, data was collected through surveys and interviews with 35 officials from the Department of Water Engineering, the Zimbabwe National Water Authority (ZINWA), and other key stakeholders. Mean score analysis provided insights into stakeholder perceptions, while thematic analysis identified key trends and challenges. The findings reveal that, beyond the El Nino-induced drought, the city's water crisis is exacerbated by aging infrastructure, illegal gold mining, and inefficient management practices. The study recommends the adoption of smart water management practices and technologies such as IoT-enabled sensors, automated systems, and data analytics. These innovations facilitate real-time monitoring, leak detection, optimised water usage, and effective resource allocation, ultimately enhancing water distribution and minimising wastage.
