Citizens accuse FIPAG of a lack of transparency in its charges

The growing wave of complaints about discrepancies in water bills in the cities of Maputo and Matola is raising serious doubts about the transparency of the Water Supply Investment and Asset Fund (FIPAG). Among the most alarming reports is a scenario that defies logic: even without water in the taps, the meters continue to run.

In a survey conducted last week, the Preto e Branco newspaper interviewed several consumers and found a worrying pattern: bills with virtually identical amounts month after month, a lack of clarity in consumption readings, and the imposition of payment even before complaints have been analyzed.

"We pay because we have no alternative, but we suspect that the amounts do not correspond to actual consumption," revealed a resident, speaking anonymously.

Determined to ascertain the facts, the reporting team went to FIPAG's headquarters on Avenida Eduardo Mondlane in Maputo, taking with them a copy of a disputed invoice. During the visit, an employee explained that the amount charged was based on the last reading recorded in the system, but acknowledged that it would be necessary to verify the current meter reading to confirm the accuracy of the data.

However, upon contacting the consumer's residence, an even more disturbing fact emerged: at that moment, there was no water supply. Images and videos sent via WhatsApp revealed a clear anomaly: the meter continued to spin, even without any supply from the public network.

Faced with the evidence, the FIPAG employee admitted it was a possible malfunction. The case was immediately forwarded to the technical team, who are expected to visit the site within 15 days. In response, the institution guaranteed that the customer will not be required to pay the bill until the technical assessment is completed, thus formalizing the complaint process.

Despite this openness, reports gathered in the neighborhoods of Maputo and Matola indicate widespread dissatisfaction. Consumers point to recurring failures in service delivery, ranging from dubious meter readings to difficulty in having their concerns resolved quickly.

A source from FIPAG assured that improvements have been implemented in customer service and appealed for the cooperation of users. "Any citizen who feels wronged should go to our counters so that the situation can be analyzed and resolved," they stated.

Nevertheless, for many residents, confidence in the system remains shaken. Between dry taps and active meters, the demand for concrete answers, transparency, and fairness in billing is growing.