BWB spokesperson celebrates resumption of tap water: Mateyu ‘let it flow’

Public Relations Officer for the Blantyre Water Board (BWB) Priscilla Mateyu on Friday joined many residents of Blantyre in celebrating the resumption of  tap water after two consecutive week of dry taps.

Mateyu had to take the celebratory mood  to Facebook after what she said “two antagonizing weeks” of trying to water down anger and insults resident in Blantyre and surrounding areas poured on  her personally and the entire BWB management for the water shortage situation that hit the city.

The water shortage situation which the residents have been experiencing for the past three months was for the past two weeks exacerbated by floods that heaped debris and mud at the main pumping station blocking the pipes in the process.

But Mateyu came under heavy criticism from water users after statement on possible water resumption proved untrue.   This forced the residents to brand her as a liar.

Some angry residents even called for the resignation of the entire staff of BWB including messengers, cleaners and watchmen.

However, water resumed flowing  in most parts of Blantyre on Friday . This forced Mateyu to post “Happy” on her  Facebook timeline as she was  listening to a song entitled ‘let it flow’.

Commenting on her post which was accompanied by her pictures in celebratory mood, most of her Facebook friends including fellow journalists commended her resilience during the tough period.

Chipiliro Mtumodzi a journalist at Malawi Broadcasting Corporation wrote: “Let what flow? Water? Lol you deserve to relax. It’s been a tough week my friend.”

In response Mateyu said: “It’s been two antagonizing weeks. Eeeeish. Got to relax”

Another journalist at Zodiak Broadcasting Station Pilirani Tambala was a little bit cynical and cautioned her on laxity.

“Yeah! Finally! I have the liquid from the taps at home! You can relax dear! At least for now kkkk” Tambala said.

Stephen Sti-dub Dakalira of Capital Radio said: “Yeah let it flow indeed…all the stress and all, good job and we are proud of you.”

However , some said it was too early to celebrate because  water is  yet to start flowing in most parts of Blantyre.

But Mateyu said it is a gradual process.

“So far 18 areas akutuluka (water is flowing). That’s a relief,” she said.