Water dealers have been warned against hiking water prices at the different water points in the country, especially in Kigali City.

The warning was issued by Electrogaz Marketing Manager, Yves Muyange, on Wednesday following reports of some distributors who unilaterally set their own prices.

Electrogaz is the country’s water and electricity utility. Speaking to The New Times at Electrogaz head offices, Muyange revealed that some distributors have a tendency of charging prices they wished, which he said is against the law.

"There are standard prices which are established by Electrogaz…no one is supposed to fix their own prices,” reiterated Muyange.

He cited an example of the dealers in Kimironko Sector of Gasabo District, who sell a 20-littre jerrycan of water at Rwf 100 when there is scarcity and Rwf 30 when water is available.

"Electrogaz standard price is Rwf 10 a jerrycan and not more. Those charging more than that will be dealt with,” warned the official.

Asked the type of punishment such offenders might face; Muyange said "Any dealer caught in this act risks a fine of up to Rwf 1,000,000.” He added that on top of the fine, their services are suspended for six months.

"Three dealers in Gatsata were caught in that act and were fined them and their services were suspended for a period of six months,” Muyange said.

Speaking to The New Times, Peninnah Uwizeyimana, a resident of Kimironko said that most people in this sector have resorted to buying as little as five litres of water because of the increased prices.

"Most people here have resorted to buying a five litre jerry can so that they can get water for cooking because that is what they can afford,” Uwizeyimana lamented. She added that some people are finding it difficult to wash their clothes due to the scarcity.

Muyange called upon local leaders to always recommend persons of integrity to operate the water points that Electrogaz spread out in different villages.

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