A lack of gasoline has stopped motorbike taxis from delivering water, leaving residents without a vital commodity.
The water distribution system installed by EMAE in the peripheral neighborhoods of Sao Tome city has been dry for some time, forcing residents to buy water. Previously, citizens paid over 1000 dobras for 1000 liters of water delivered by motorbike. This trade became profitable, especially in and around the capital, as people returned from work to find no water for cooking or bathing.
However, a gasoline shortage has paralyzed this business. Motorbike taxis are now stationary, leaving the population that relied on them for water frustrated. Drivers report being unable to work, leaving their families hungry. Residents in areas like Bobô Fôrro, Água Porca, Penha, and Boa Morte, who have had no running water for three months, are now unable to access even this costly alternative.
Agostinha da Glória, a resident of Bobô Fôrro, stated that the piped water system in her neighborhood has been dry for three months, requiring her to travel kilometers for water. Antónia Fernandes Moreno from Boa Morte echoed this, noting that EMAE installed pipes but no water flows, making basic hygiene difficult. The paralysis of motorbike taxis means even fetching water from nearby rivers is no longer an option for many.
Why it mattersResidents are unable to purchase water for essential needs due to a fuel shortage halting delivery services.
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