Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume announced that the Harare City Council will allocate 40 hectares of land and a sports club to the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) for the construction of a stadium and headquarters.
In addition to the HighGlen land deal, Mafume revealed that the City of Harare will partner with ZIFA to renovate the Rufaro and Gwanzura stadiums.
Speaking after a meeting with ZIFA president Nqobile Magwizi in Harare on Monday, 17 March, Mafume said:
<blockquote>
We will avail one of our sports clubs for the building of the ZIFA headquarters. It will go through the committees tomorrow.
We are also keen to avail one of our sports grounds to ZIFA. We want to develop it, the 40-hectare HighGlen Stadium.
We are willing to avail that land to ZIFA for assistance. We would not want them to give us money, but we would want them to assist us in developing Rufaro and Gwanzura Stadia.
We will also avail another sports club for the Mighty Warriors and develop that facility. We will also name that facility in due course.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe currently does not have a single stadium certified by CAF to host international football matches. 
As a result, national teams and clubs competing in CAF tournaments are forced to use stadiums in other countries as their home grounds.
More: <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/magwizi-pushes-for-new-stadium-head-office-harare-avails-sports-club-land-to-zifa-rufaro-gwanzura-to-be-refurbished/">Chronicle</a>

Pindula News

Harare City Council will give ZIFA 40 hectares of land for a new stadium and headquarters. The council will also help renovate two other stadiums. ZIFA does not have a certified stadium for international matches, so this will help. The mayor wants to develop sports facilities and is working with ZIFA to make it happen. The plan is to improve football in Zimbabwe and have better places for games. It's all about making sure football teams have good places to play in their own country.

Harare City Council Set To Allocate 40 Hectares For ZIFA Stadium And Headquarters

By Munashe Chokodza
The City of Harare has once again missed an opportunity to improve its sporting facilities after the Housing Committee, chaired by Councillor Blessing Muroyiwa, rejected a proposal to partner with FC Porto Dragon Force Harare T/A Gea Sports for the refurbishment of Jakana Open Ground.
According to minutes from the committee’s meeting, the Director of Housing and Community Services had recommended granting authority for the partnership. However, the report was later withdrawn. The minutes read:
<blockquote>
The Committee had before it a report (dated 27th November 2024, circulated with the agenda) from the Director of Housing and Community Services, recommending approval of a partnership with FC Porto Dragon Force Harare T/A Gea Sports for the refurbishment of Jakana Open Ground.
At the request of the Director of Housing and Community Services, and with the concurrence of the Committee, the report was withdrawn.
</blockquote>
This decision further underscores the city’s ongoing struggles to develop and maintain sporting infrastructure, leaving athletes and communities without adequate facilities.

The City of Harare said no to fixing a sports ground called Jakana Open Ground. They had a chance to work with FC Porto Dragon Force Harare to make it better, but they said no. Even though the Director of Housing wanted to say yes, the housing committee said no. This means that the city is still having problems making and keeping good places for sports, which is not good for athletes and communities. They missed a chance to make things better.

Harare City Council Dismisses Proposal To Renovate Jakana Open Ground

The City of Harare is owed more than ZiG5 billion due to unpaid rates, according to Acting Finance Director Godfrey Kusangaya.
Kusangaya revealed this information during the launch of a new effort to collect overdue payments in Harare on Monday morning.
He pointed out that, unlike in the past when businesses owed most of the money, now a large portion of the debt is from residents. Said Kusangaya:
<blockquote>
Council is being owed a lot of money out there, we are being owed over ZiG5 billion and this amount is not a joke.
Unlike in the past, a huge amount of the money is coming from residents who are not paying their rates and bills.
This time residents owe us around ZiG3 billion whereas the remainder is coming from commerce and industry.
</blockquote>
He said that there are several key revenue streams where the council needs to improve its collection efforts to address the growing debt.

The city of Harare is owed over ZiG5 billion because people haven't paid their bills. It's not just businesses owing money, but residents owe a lot too. The Acting Finance Director, Godfrey Kusangaya, said that residents owe around ZiG3 billion while the rest is from businesses. The council needs to do better at collecting money from people to reduce the debt. They have launched a new effort to collect overdue payments in Harare. They need to improve how they collect money from different places to solve the problem.

Harare Owed Over ZiG5 Billion By Ratepayers

Top officials in the City of Harare are reportedly resisting salary cuts after Mayor Jacob Mafume announced that the council has frozen payments of high salaries to its executives while negotiations are ongoing.
Suspended town clerk Hosiah Chisango is reported to be receiving a US$27,000 salary and large perks, even though his contract has expired.
Mathew Marara, Chisango’s assistant, is also reportedly receiving a substantial salary.
An official at Town House told <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200039062/uproar-as-hcc-top-brass-resists-salary-cuts">NewsDay</a> on Monday that the top executives are pushing back against the proposed pay cuts. Said the official:
<blockquote>
They are writing to the acting town clerk engineer Phakamile Mabhena and they are going to quote previous cases where Chingombe and Kwenda won their cases against salary cuts but the two won because their salaries were approved by council.
It is difficult for Marara and Chisango to win the cases as their salaries were not approved by Harare City Council.
They are resisting pay cuts and they are defiant and we are going to see a major fight at Harare City Council.
</blockquote>
Harare Residents Trust director, Precious Shumba, said on Monday that the top officials should resign, or residents will protest against them. He said:
<blockquote>
They must not resist, they have an option to go and look for new jobs because we are suffering in Harare because of poor service delivery.
If they refuse, they should help themselves by leaving Harare City Council because there are competent people who are willing to work at Harare City for half the salary of those who are giving themselves hefty packages.
We cannot be held at ransom because of the need for good living, if they continue to hold us at ransom, then we are going to protest.
</blockquote>
Mafume said some executives were marrying every year due to their large salaries. He added that if they resisted salary cuts, they would be let go from the organisation to enjoy their lives with their wives.

Top officials in Harare City Council don't want their salaries cut. The town clerk, whose contract is over, gets $27,000 a month. Another executive also gets a lot of money. They are fighting against pay cuts. People in Harare are angry and want them to quit. The mayor says if they don't like the pay cut, they should leave and enjoy their money with their families. Residents might protest if they keep resisting.

Harare City Council Top Brass Resist Salary Cuts

The Harare City Council has criticised the decision to grant free parking discs to Members of Parliament (MPs) in the central business district.
Last week, Jacob Mudenda, Speaker of the National Assembly, announced that MPs were entitled to two exempt vehicles from parking fees, which are set at US$1 per hour in Harare.
As reported by <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200039013/councillors-shoot-down-free-parking-for-mps-plan">NewsDay</a>, during a full council meeting on Friday, Ward 16 councillor Denford Ngadziore said that there had been no council resolution on the matter.
He asserted that the council would reverse the decision, saying only people with disabilities should be exempt from parking fees. Said Ngadziore:
<blockquote>
We are told that MPs will no longer be required to pay parking fees in Harare’s central business district.
As council, we are against the move and this should be reversed at all cost, this decision was not even discussed by us councillors.
We are eating from ratepayers’ money, let’s discuss the matter, we can’t do this without a council resolution, we have people whose cars are being auctioned.
</blockquote>
Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume acknowledged the issue, saying, “I have heard you, councillor Denford Ngadziore, we are looking into the matter”
In Harare, war veterans and senior citizens aged 70 and above are exempt from paying parking fees.

Harare City Council is annoyed about MPs getting free parking. They were not asked about this decision. Councillor Denford Ngadziore said only disabled people should be exempt from fees. Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume said they will look into this issue. In Harare, only war veterans and people over 70 can park for free. The decision to give MPs free parking has caused a lot of disagreement in the city council.

Harare Councillors Challenge Decision To Grant MPs Free Parking Discs

The City of Harare has acknowledged responsibility for repairing a stretch of road that is now in poor condition, with signs suggesting the work was poorly executed.
On Monday, February 24, social media personality Mmatigari brought the issue to the attention of the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development, describing the road’s rehabilitation as “a big crooked mess.” He wrote on X:
<blockquote>
The contractor who resurfaced Harare Drive from Arcturus Road to E D Mnangagwa Road (formerly Enterprise) cheated the people of Zimbabwe
The road surface moves and creates ridges and contours on the entire stretch adjacent to Oriel School at the intersection with Pringle Road.
It’s a big crooked mess.
We can’t surface roads and then need to redo them 2-3 years later. Tingavake Nyika yacho sei manje?
</blockquote>
The Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development responded and said that the section of the road was rehabilitated by the City of Harare. The Ministry said:
<blockquote>
Please be advised that the section of Harare Drive, stretching from Arcturus Road to ED Mnangagwa Road (formerly Enterprise Road), was rehabilitated by the City of Harare.
This project was not undertaken by the Ministry of Transport &amp; Infrastructural Development. Thank you.
</blockquote>
On Tuesday, the City of Harare confirmed it had contracted a private company to rehabilitate the road section in 2017.
The local authority said is investigating the issue and plans to repair the damaged areas as funds become available. The statement reads:
<blockquote>
Our attention has been drawn to a social media posting on the state of the road on Harare Drive between Acturus Road and ED Mnangagwa Road.
We confirm that the City of Harare indeed contracted a private company to rehabilitate the portion of the road in 2017.
The City of Harare is looking into the issue with a view of working on the damaged parts of the road as funds become available.
It would be prudent that more funds are availed to make sure that we rehabilitate as many link roads as possible to ease pressure on reconstructed roads.
We would like to thank the resident who highlighted the issue and we reiterate that action will be taken.
</blockquote>

The City of Harare says it's their fault that a road is in bad shape. A social media personality complained about the bad road work. The Ministry of Transport said the city did the work. The city admits they hired a private contractor in 2017. They plan to fix the road when they have enough money. They want more funds to fix other roads too. The city thanked the person who complained and promised to take action. They are investigating the problem.

City Of Harare Blames Poor Road Work On Private Contractor

Harare City Council executives receive large salaries and expensive holiday benefits, amounting to millions per year, reported <a href="https://www.zbcnews.co.zw/executives-gobble-us500-000-as-residents-yearn-for-proper-service-delivery/">ZBC News</a>.
This comes at a time when the city is struggling to provide basic services to its residents, such as uncollected garbage, sewage problems, broken traffic lights, and unsafe drinking water.
During his testimony before the Commission of Inquiry, led by Retired Judge Justice Maphios Cheda on Tuesday, Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume revealed that he was unaware of the large amounts being paid to the council executives. He said:
<blockquote>
It is an anomaly. I have not been able to access the salary roll for the executives. The only time I saw it was when the acting human resources director came to my office and presented the document and he said that he had been instructed by the town clerk not to leave it with me.
I just managed a glimpse of the document and saw that the town clerk earned as much as US$27 000 per month, and the figure goes to around US$13 000 per month as the grade goes downwards. All in all it is costing us at least US$500 000 per month and that is unsustainable.
</blockquote>
During the hearing, Commission lead Thabani Mpofu asked Mafume to confirm that the large salaries for Harare City Council executives did not include any extra benefits. Mafume agreed and added that when other perks are included, the total pay could exceed US$30,000.
Justice Cheda then asked why Mafume seemed unable to control the executives’ high spending. Mafume explained that the executives often reminded him that he was not an executive mayor, so his power was limited.
Justice Cheda also asked about the relationship between the City Council executives and the councillors, to which Mafume said it was “not harmonious.”

Harare City Council leaders get lots of money and perks while residents have problems like garbage and bad water. The mayor didn't even know about how much they were getting paid. The council executives make too much money, up to $30,000 a month. The mayor can't control their spending because they say he doesn't have much power. The relationship between the executives and the councillors is not good. Residents are suffering while the council leaders are living lavishly.

Harare Council Executives Gobble US$500 000 As Residents Face Garbage Piles And Water Woes

Harare City Council officials have been accused of misusing over US$1 million raised by City Parking, a private company responsible for managing parking in Harare’s Central Business District (CBD), reported <a href="https://opencouncil.co.zw/harare-commission-of-inquiry-concludes-with-us1m-bombshell/">Open Council</a>.
While testifying before the Harare Commission of Inquiry on Tuesday, Mayor Jacob Mafume revealed that Town Clerk Hosiah Chisango and other council executives purchased the latest vehicles for themselves under questionable circumstances.
The management took advantage of the brief period when the Council was dissolved pending elections, swiftly acquiring the vehicles without proper justification. Said Mafume:
<blockquote>
Last year City Parking brought to the City Council about a million.
When we started asking where that US$1 million went that is where the problem began.
I am told that the US$1 million was used to purchase executive cars or Fortuners and so forth.
</blockquote>
Thabani Mpofu, the evidence leader for the Commission, also revealed that Harare City Council executives collectively spend up to US$125,000 annually on holidays.
According to Mpofu, the Town Clerk is entitled to one international trip per year, while other executives are allowed regional travel. In addition, executives like the Assistant to the Town Clerk, Matthew Marara, receive US$9,000 annually for local holidays, which are broken down into three holidays of US$3,000 each.
Executives are also given US$6,000 for regional holidays. During the 30 months he was suspended, Marara allegedly received a total of US$27,000 in holiday allowances.
Furthermore, all Grade Two employees, mostly directors, are entitled to over US$3,000 for newspaper allowances.
They are also given fuel allowance which is around 450 per month. Said Mafume:
<blockquote>
I am actually shocked at the figures and the information.
They come at a time when we, as Councillors, are being asked and everybody is being asked to tighten their belts. Others are loosening.
</blockquote>
The Harare Commission of Inquiry concluded the investigation on Tuesday. With all necessary information collected, the Maphios Cheda-led Commission will now begin compiling its report.
The final document, along with its recommendations, will be submitted to President Emmerson Mnangagwa.

Harare City Council officials used $1 million from City Parking for luxury cars and holidays. Mayor Mafume revealed Town Clerk and executives bought expensive vehicles without good reasons. They also spend $125,000 yearly on vacations. Town Clerk gets international trips, others get regional travel. Executives like Marara get $9,000 for local holidays and $6,000 for regional trips. Grade Two employees get newspaper and fuel allowances. The investigation by the Harare Commission of Inquiry is done, and a report with recommendations will be given to the President.

Harare City Council Officials Spent US$1 Million On Luxury Vehicles

The Harare City Council has urged residents not to panic over discoloured water coming out of the tapes, particularly in Highfields.
In a public notice issued on Sunday afternoon, the Council assured the public that the water is not harmful.
The discolouration is due to sludge being pushed from reservoirs that have not been supplied with water for the past two days.
The council said that the system is being flushed, and the reservoir cleaning process will begin immediately.
In the meantime, residents are advised to use the water for non-potable purposes, such as watering gardens. The notice reads as follows:
<blockquote>
The City of Harare has been notified of incidences of discoloured water from tapes particularly in the Highfields area in Harare.
This has been caused by sludge being pushed from our reservoirs which has not been receiving water for the past two days due to a major fault at our Warren Control water distribution centre.
The discoloured water is a result of low levels at the reservoirs and the sludge is an accumulation of water chemicals we use in the tanks over time.
As there was very little water in the reservoirs, the sludge was forced out leading to the challenge being faced by residents.
This is not harmful and we urge residents not to panic. Our engineers have since rectified the problem at Warren Control and the water will clear once we start pumping early tomorrow morning (16/02/25).
Our treated water from Morton Jaffray Water Works near Norton is pumped to Warren Control and Lochinver reservoirs which then supply reservoirs in all our areas before being released to our homes.
We urge residents in Highfields to be patient while we wait to resume pumping of water in the area and ultimately the water will clear.
The system is being flushed and reservoir cleaning process will start immediately.
For now, residents may use the water for other purposes such as garden watering.
Any inconveniences caused are sincerely regretted.
</blockquote>

The Harare City Council says not to worry about discoloured tap water in Highfields. It's just sludge from reservoirs without water for two days. The water isn't harmful. Engineers are fixing the problem, and water will clear soon. In the meantime, use water for non-drinking purposes like watering plants. The council apologizes for any inconvenience.

Harare City Council Urges Residents Not To Panic Over Discoloured Tap Water

Harare City Mayor Jacob Mafume testified before the Commission of Inquiry into governance issues at Harare City Council, revealing that some councillors and council executives are conspiring to block the purchase of an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system.
An ERP system is software designed to manage and integrate the core business processes of an organisation. These processes include finance, human resources, supply chain, manufacturing, services, procurement, and others.
The City of Harare has been operating without an ERP system for the past six years. ERP systems provide a centralised platform where data from various departments can be accessed and shared, allowing for improved coordination, efficiency, and decision-making.
During his appearance before the Commission, Mafume said the absence of an ERP system has led to widespread theft within the council. Said Mafume:
<blockquote>
I cannot provide exact figures because management has ensured that no audits have been conducted at the council since 2019.
However, we have anecdotal evidence. Millions are paid out in duplicate payments, and some ratepayers’ fees are being waived.
We estimate losses of around US$10 million per year. The City Council has been haemorrhaging funds.
</blockquote>
Harare City Council has not been able to audit its accounts for over five years, raising serious concerns about corporate governance at Town House.
Mafume further revealed that top officials at the council have formed a corruption cartel, profiting from the ongoing disarray. He claimed:
<blockquote>
The Harare City Council Executive has obstructed my efforts to implement a functional ERP system.
I have made every effort to get the ERP system installed. Instead, I’ve been accused of interference.
But I’ve done everything humanly possible to make it happen. We cannot function properly without an ERP system.
This is a deliberate act by our procurement department and management. They do not want the ERP system implemented.
</blockquote>
This story was contributed by Munashe Chokodza

Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume said some councillors and executives are stopping the city from getting a system to help manage its money. The system would save them money and stop theft. The city has lost $10 million each year because of this. The mayor tried to get the system, but other people stopped him. They haven't checked their accounts for more than five years, which is very worrying. Top officials are making money from this chaos. The mayor is trying his best to fix the problem, but others are not cooperating. This is a big problem for the city.

Harare Loses US$10 Million Annually Due To Leakages, Says Mayor

Harare’s mayor, Jacob Mafume, has said that over US$4.5 million disappeared from the city council through one of its companies, Harare Quarry, reported <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/us4-5-million-mysteriously-disappeared-from-harare-city-council-mayor-mafume-tells-commission-of-inquiry/">NewZimbabwe</a>.
Mafume claimed that in 2018, the council gave Harare Quarry US$4.5 million to help restart its operations, but the money was spent without any clear record of where it went.
During a hearing with the Harare Commission of Inquiry, led by retired Judge Maphios Cheda, on Thursday Mafume openly stated, “The money was stolen.”
When asked who was responsible for the theft and what steps were taken to investigate, Mafume responded:
<blockquote>
The management of Quarry. We resolved to get the Police involved. What we did is, we instituted, what was done before we were elected as Councillors. This was done by the previous Council and the previous management.
We were elected in 2018. The money was stolen, I am trying to think when the loan was advanced. I am not too sure.
</blockquote>
Harare Quarry, a company owned by the City Council, has not been paying money back to the Council, even though its property is being rented out to private businesses.
Mafume admitted that Harare Quarry has been a financial problem for the City Council, needing regular financial help to stay afloat. He said:
<blockquote>
I am very passionate about that US$4 million because that US$4 million is the one that has caused us to have differences with the management that was there. I have pursued it in different Council meetings. I have taken the actions within my power.
As of current, because the properties are being constantly attached, I have suggested that the entity be put under management or what we used to call liquidation.
For the past three weeks, as Council we have had to pay amounts that are owed by the Quarry.
</blockquote>
Warren Chiwawa, the City of Harare’s chamber secretary, said the case has been reported to the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission.
He also claimed that the US$4.5 million went missing when Antonia Zvoutete, who is now the Marondera Chamber Secretary, was the General Manager of Harare Quarry.
According to the Municipality of Marondera, Zvoutete has a background in law and served in the Zimbabwe National Army from 2005 to 2008.
She later worked at the City of Harare in several legal roles, including Senior Legal Officer, Principal Legal Officer, and Chief Legal Officer.
She holds a law degree from the University of Zimbabwe, a diploma in Peace and Governance from Africa University, and a degree in Theology from the Zimbabwe Open University.

The mayor of Harare said $4.5 million disappeared from the city council's company, Harare Quarry. The money was given to restart operations but was spent with no clear record. The mayor thinks the money was stolen. The company is not paying back money, causing financial problems for the council. The case has been reported to the Anti-Corruption Commission. The money disappeared when a former manager, now working in Marondera, was in charge. She has a legal background and military experience. The council is trying to manage the situation and pay back what is owed.

US$4.5 Million Disappears Without A Trace In Harare Quarry Scandal

By Munashe Chokodza
Harare City Council’s executive assistant, Matthew Marara, testified on Tuesday before the commission of inquiry into governance issues at Harare City Council, revealing that he received US$8,000 for gadgets during his suspension.
Marara was suspended from the council in 2020 and returned to Town House in May 2023, in defiance of the Ministry of Local Government’s directive that all council officials with court cases must not report for duty.
Testifying before the commission, Marara stated that Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume appointed a committee that approved the money he received.
The money included an astonishing US$3,256 for newspaper subscriptions, US$3,700 for a laptop, US$2,550 for a cell phone, and US$1,920 for an iPad, among other benefits.
The inflated prices for Marara’s benefits raise concerns of corruption and mismanagement at the Harare City Council. Said Marara:
<blockquote>
There were dues I was supposed to be given. By the time I was not at work, I was supposed to get these newspapers when I was at work, so I am used to reading newspapers, so I continued buying newspapers on
</blockquote>
Marara’s controversial compensation package comes at a time when the City of Harare is grappling with a severe lack of funds, which is hampering its ability to provide basic services to residents.

Matthew Marara, who works for Harare City Council, got $8,000 for gadgets while he was suspended. He got the money in 2020 for things like newspaper subscriptions, a laptop, a cell phone, and an iPad. The prices for these gadgets were very high. This has raised concerns about corruption at the council. Marara said Mayor Jacob Mafume's committee approved the money. This happened when the council was facing a lack of funds to provide services to residents. Marara's actions have been questioned by a commission looking into how the council is run.

Marara Received US$8k From Harare Council To Buy Electronic Gadgets During His Suspension

The dates for the much-anticipated Mayor’s Cheer Fund Challenge Soccer tournament are tentatively set for 21, 22, and 23 February. Eight teams will compete in the tournament.
In a statement, the City of Harare said the eight participating teams are CAPS United, Dynamos, newly promoted Scottland, Herentals, Division One side Harare City, Simba Bhora, Yadah, and another Division One outfit, MWOS.
City of Harare spokesperson Stanley Gama, who is also chairing the organising committee, said the tournament is expected to be one of the biggest football fiestas ever witnessed in Harare. He added that proceeds will go to charity. Gama said:
<blockquote>
It’s going to be a unique tournament which will serve as a season opener to gauge the teams’ preparedness for the upcoming season.
More importantly, Mayor Cllr Jacob Mafume through his Cheer Fund wants to raise money for the needy.
Besides the football, we will have a business exhibition around the venue – Rufaro Stadium where companies will occupy stands to market their products. In the stadium. We will have entertainment from musicians and popular DJs in the country.
So the talent on display will not only be about football but other disciplines like music. We want to make it a massive family gathering.
</blockquote>
The Council said that to make it more exciting, they have invited MWOS, based in Norton, and Simba Bhora, housed in Shamva.
The council said that details of the tournament will be shared regularly until it starts.

The City of Harare will have a soccer tournament on February 21-23. Eight teams will play, including CAPS United and Dynamos. The tournament will raise money for charity. Mayor Jacob Mafume wants to help people in need. There will be music, entertainment, and business displays at Rufaro Stadium. Two teams from Norton and Shamva will join. More information will be shared before the event. It will be a fun family event with soccer and other activities.

City Of Harare Announces Dates For Mayor's Cheer Fund Soccer Tournament

Harare City Council officials reportedly met with the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works this week to express concerns over Helcraw Electrical Projects, a company linked to ZANU PF legislator Farai Jere, which was selected for a major water infrastructure contract.
The officials questioned Helcraw’s capacity, referencing its failed bid to supply water meters in a US$2 million tender in 2023.
According to an unnamed government official who spoke to <a href="https://www.theindependent.co.zw/local-news/article/200037064/harare-queries-water-plant-deal">The Independent</a>, Helcraw Electrical Projects was chosen to establish a new water treatment plant and supply water meters in partnership with Chinese firm Hangzhou Laison Technology. Said the official:
<blockquote>
A series of meetings have been held to discuss the agreement between the government and Helcraw Electrical Projects.
On January 12, city officials, including acting water director Richard Kunyadini attended a meeting at Makombe Building.
The meeting emphasised on the need to first conduct a due diligence on Helcraw Electrical Projects, focusing on whether they have capacity to fund the project.
It was centred on privatisation of water and sewer services and introducing Helcraw who had signed a Memorandum of Understanding as the chosen investor without having gone through any tender process.
The meeting focused on a number of issues that include whether Helcraw Electrical Projects had the financial and technical capacity to roll out the massive project.
Officials also questioned whether Helcraw Electrical Projects had presented the proof of funding to finance the project.
More importantly, the meeting questioned why a project of this scope could be awarded without first conducting due diligence on Helcraw Electrical Projects.
</blockquote>
Helcraw is expected to supply prepaid meters for 350,000 properties at a cost of US$96 million and replace a 100-kilometre pipe network valued at US$23 million.
When contacted for a comment by The Independent, Jere requested a meeting next week, stating he could not share such details over the phone.
Kunyadini, who also attended the meeting, referred The Independent’s questions to Mayor Jacob Mafume.
Mafume, who was in Russia at the time, said no one questioned the deal when it was signed last week. He was among the officials who attended the signing ceremony.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Harare City Council officials are worried about a deal with a company called Helcraw for a water project. The company failed in a previous bid. They are chosen to build a new water plant and supply meters. The officials want to check if the company has enough money and skills for the project. They also wonder why this company was chosen without a proper process. The company will supply meters for 350,000 properties and replace pipes. The legislator linked to the company did not comment on the issue.

Harare City Council Officials Question Water Plant Deal

Former Harare City Council acting human capital director Matthew Marara reportedly received over US$350,000 in compensation for the period he was suspended without pay on corruption charges. However, Marara asserted that the figure was US$131,000.
<a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/harare-city-boss-paid-us350-000-back-pay/">The Herald</a> reported that on Wednesday, Marara appeared before the Commission of Inquiry into Harare City Council’s affairs, chaired by retired Justice Maphios Cheda.
He was called to address allegations that he had resigned and then rescinded his resignation to claim a large amount of back pay, or at least take advantage of the missing letter of resignation.
Marara was questioned about his alleged resignation in 2020 and return to the council in 2023. Evidence presented before the commission suggested that Marara resigned after his suspension but backtracked in 2023, claiming he had never resigned and was still a council employee.
It is alleged that he took advantage of the missing resignation letter to maintain his assertion of unbroken service.
Thabani Mpofu, who is leading evidence from witnesses appearing before the commission, said the information obtained showed Marara received US$350,000.
However, Marara denied the claims that he had resigned, saying the council agreed to pay him US$131,000, not US$350,000, with US$116,000 already paid out for the 30 months he was absent.
These revelations come as Harare City Council struggles to provide basic services to ratepayers, such as running tap water and refuse collection.
Council officials are accused of awarding themselves hefty salaries and perks at the expense of service delivery.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Former Harare City Council official, Matthew Marara, received over $350,000 in back pay while suspended on corruption charges. He claims it was only $131,000. Marara was questioned about resigning in 2020 and returning in 2023. Evidence suggests he used a missing resignation letter to claim uninterrupted service. The council, struggling to provide essential services, is under scrutiny for lavish salaries. Marara denied resigning and said he was only paid $131,000, not $350,000. This controversy highlights issues of corruption and mismanagement in the City Council.

Harare City Council Official Paid US$350 000 Back Pay

A Harare City Council official has revealed that people exposing corruption at Town House are being threatened with death, while some have been poisoned.
Speaking before the Commission of Inquiry appointed by President Emmerson Mnangagwa in 2024 to investigate suspected financial mismanagement and corruption in Harare dating back to 2017, acting Human Capital Director Bosman Matengarufu claimed he had received death threats, survived an assassination attempt, and was poisoned as corrupt cartels sought to silence him.
Matengarufu also recounted an incident in 2020 when he was chased out of a workshop in Chinhoyi by an individual armed with a gun. He said (via <a href="https://businesstimes.co.zw/death-threats-rock-town-house/">Business Times</a>):
<blockquote>
The City of Harare is a toxic environment. I was poisoned twice and it’s on record. I was chased away at a Chinhoyi workshop with a gun to deter me from exposing corruption in any way.
</blockquote>
When asked by Justice Maphios Cheda, the chairman of the Commission, about the reason for his poisoning, Matengarufu responded:
<blockquote>
I was demoted after Marara’s return from allegations of corruption. I was acting in his place during his absence due to corruption charges. After (Matthew) Marara returned, I was demoted, and that’s when the fight began.
</blockquote>
He said Marara created a fictitious position within the council and allocated himself a substantial sum of money, sparking controversy. Said Matengarufu:
<blockquote>
There are matters within the council you should never tamper with if you want to live. (These are) land, appointments, water, procurement.
</blockquote>
Matengarufu’s testimony appears to support speculation that one of the key council officials, who had threatened in a letter to the Local Government Ministry to expose rampant corruption at the local authority, was killed by the cartel.
The official, Funny Machipisa, who served as District Administration Manager, died under mysterious circumstances last year. His family believes his death was the result of foul play.
Before his death, Machipisa had voiced concerns about being pushed out of his position to silence him. In a letter dated July 9, 2024, he revealed that he was being targeted for opposing the councillors’ push to allocate residential stands in affluent areas rather than their respective wards.
Machipisa had warned that their plan to remove him was designed to prevent him from testifying before the ongoing Commission of Inquiry.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Harare City Council official exposed corruption and got threatened and poisoned. Bosman Matengarufu told a Commission about death threats and assassination attempts. He was demoted after pointing out corruption. Another official, Funny Machipisa, died mysteriously after speaking out against corruption. Some say he was killed by a corrupt group. The council is a dangerous place with corruption in things like land and appointments. Matengarufu's testimony supports rumors of corruption and threats at the council.

Harare Council Official Poisoned And Threatened With Death For Exposing Corruption

The City of Harare has announced a significant reduction in shop license fees. The move is intended to alleviate the financial burden on businesses and stimulate growth in a sector that contributes 60% of Zimbabwe’s GDP, reported Zimbabwe Economic Review.
The council said the new fee structure introduces flexibility, offering various payment options to suit different business needs.
Businesses can now pay license fees monthly, quarterly, biannually, or annually.
Additionally, the fees will now be categorized based on the size of the business: small businesses will pay US$400 annually, medium businesses will pay US$600 annually, and large businesses will pay US$800 annually.
The local authority explained that this reduction responds to widespread complaints from SMEs regarding high fees and the rigid non-transferability of licenses.
By lessening these costs, Harare aims to encourage the growth of SMEs, which is essential for economic stability, especially given the large informal economy resulting from company closures, currency instability, and inflation.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The Harare City Council has lowered shop license fees to help businesses grow. The new fee structure allows businesses to pay monthly, quarterly, biannually, or annually. Small businesses pay $400 per year, medium businesses pay $600, and large businesses pay $800. This change aims to support small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) that have complained about high fees. By reducing costs, Harare hopes to help SMEs, which are important for the economy, especially with many companies closing and inflation in Zimbabwe.

Harare City Council Cuts Shop Licence Fees

Building owners in Harare’s Central Business District have threatened legal action against Mayor Jacob Mafume and the City of Harare if their grievances are not addressed within two weeks.
The owners, including firms like Mohammed Mussa, Bhika Brothers, Tselentis, and Dell Investments, have petitioned city officials.
They demand action on excessive rates and taxes, inaccurate water bills, poor service delivery, traffic congestion, crime, and declining property values.
They accuse Mafume and the council of neglecting long-standing issues that are harming businesses and have given the mayor a 14-day ultimatum to act or face legal action. The letter reads in part:
<blockquote>
You will recall we have had two meetings with you, and at both meetings, a representative from the City of Harare was present.
At the meetings, it was agreed that the rates and taxes, in many cases, were excessive and that the matter would be addressed and corrected.
</blockquote>
The property owners argued that recent property valuations were inflated, despite the evident degradation of the CBD. This has led to businesses relocating and leaving many buildings vacant. Reads the letter:
<blockquote>
The asset value of most of the properties has decreased substantially, and the resale/market value has dropped accordingly.
Rental income is minimal, and the viability of properties is marginal. Accordingly, the City of Harare should not be increasing their valuations to maximise income.
</blockquote>
Many businesses are nearing the end of their financial year, and the overcharging by the City of Harare will adversely impact their year-end accounts.
The group has demanded an immediate resolution of the issues and warned that failure to act will leave them with no choice but to seek legal recourse.
Attempts by <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/harare-cbd-property-owners-threaten-legal-action-over-council-neglect/">The Herald</a> to obtain a comment from Mafume were unsuccessful. Although the mayor read the questions sent via WhatsApp, he did not respond or answer his phone.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Building owners in Harare's CBD are angry because they feel they are being charged too much for rates and taxes, and their property values are declining. They have given the mayor and the council two weeks to fix these problems, or they will sue. They say that recent property valuations are too high, even though the area is getting worse. Many businesses are suffering because of this. The owners want the city to solve these issues immediately, or they will go to court. The mayor did not respond to questions about this. The landlords are very unhappy and want things to change.

Harare CBD Landlords Threaten To Sue City Council Over Unresolved Grievances

Harare mayor Jacob Mafume has attributed the water challenges faced by residents in recent days to a power surge at the Morton Jaffray Water Works, the city’s main water treatment plant.
According to Mafume, the power surge affected the pumps at the plant, resulting in waterlogging and disruption of pumping.
Speaking from Morton Jaffray Water Works on Sunday morning, Mafume said that restoration of water supplies to the CBD and most western suburbs had commenced. He said:
<blockquote>
We understand that there are suburbs that have not had water in the currents few days, after our shutdown, we had a power surge and the power surge created the situation where the water flowed back into the plants and the pumps that we used to pump the water, were waterlogged, or they were flooded.
They are currently being dried by a specialist company that is doing the work, and one of the pumps will be finished within the next few 48 hours.
We have already started pumping in certain suburbs, Glenview, Kuwadzana, and so forth, we will be pumping into the CBD, or we are already pumping. The effects that will be felt as the day progresses.
</blockquote>
Mafume also reassured residents and ratepayers that water would be available throughout the Christmas holiday.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The mayor of Harare said a power surge at the water treatment plant caused water problems for residents. The pumps were affected, causing pumping issues. Water supply is being restored, with some areas already getting water. A specialist company is working to dry the flooded pumps. Residents will have water during Christmas. The mayor gave this update from the water works.

Power Surge Damages Morton Jaffray Water Works

Harare mayor, Councillor Jacob Mafume, has acknowledged that the council is struggling to provide adequate water supply to residents and ratepayers.
During a visit to the Morton Jaffray Water Works on Sunday morning, Mafume said the council has sought assistance from the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works to address the city’s water challenges. Said Mafume:
<blockquote>
There is still a significant shortage of supply in terms of what we need to supply on a day-to-day basis, and that had to be dealt with through a number of measures that require a whole of government approach.
We have since approached central government and made a request in terms of the pumping capacity, the civil works that have been done at Morton Jaffray, and also give an update on what needs to be done.
Once we do those, we would be able to at least get 500 mega litres per day. That will significantly alleviate the water shortages that we were currently facing.
</blockquote>
Water shortages in Harare are caused by a combination of factors that include outdated water infrastructure, corruption and mismanagement within the council, and power cuts to water treatment cuts.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The mayor of Harare, Councillor Jacob Mafume, says there is not enough water for people in the city. He asked the government for help to fix the water problems. The city needs to do more to provide water to everyone every day. The water shortages are because of old water systems, corruption, and power outages. The government needs to help with pumping more water and fixing the water works. Getting more water will make life better for people in Harare.

Harare City Council Seeks Government Help To Resolve Water Shortages

Environmental and water rights campaigners have given a 48-hour ultimatum to the City of Harare (CoH), the Environmental Management Agency (EMA), and the Upper Manyame Sub-Catchment Council (UMSCC) to decontaminate Lake Chivero and stop discharging raw sewage effluent into the primary water source.
The ultimatum was issued by the Harare Wetlands Trust (HWT), represented by Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights.
This follows a press statement by the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority, reporting the deaths of several animals due to cyanobacteria contamination in Lake Chivero.
HWT believes the pollution is caused by CoH’s continued dumping of raw sewage into the lake, leading to a loss of animal life and making the water unsafe for human consumption.
HWT argued that CoH has a constitutional obligation to protect the environment and ensure a safe and healthy environment for citizens, as outlined in sections 73 and 4(2)(g) of the Environmental Management Act.
In the event of EMA failing to meet its demands, HWT said it will proceed to institute litigation against EMA. 
In its letter to UMSCC, HWT demanded that the statutory water management body should within 24 hours furnish it with details of the cause, nature and extent of the cyanobacteria contamination of Lake Chivero and share information as to whether any measures are being taken to de-contaminate Lake Chivero and specify the nature of such measures being taken.
The Trust also demanded that UMSCC should advise it if it has issued any measures and or recommendations to prevent the recurrence of the contamination of water in Lake Chivero and specify such measures and recommendations.
Failure to do so, HWT said, would leave it with no option but to take legal action against UMSCC to compel it to furnish the environmental and water rights campaigners with the requested information.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Environmental groups want City of Harare, EMA, and UMSCC to clean Lake Chivero and stop sewage dumping. Animals are dying from pollution, and water is not safe for people. The groups say CoH has a duty to protect the environment. If EMA doesn't act, legal action will be taken. HWT demands info on water contamination and prevention measures. UMSCC must give details or face legal action. The goal is to make sure the lake is clean and safe for everyone.

Environmentalists Threaten Legal Action Over Lake Chivero Sewage Dumping

The City of Harare said that reports of contamination at Lake Chivero are exaggerated, despite confirmation from the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (Zimparks) that several animals, including four rhinos, three zebras, four wildebeests, four fish eagles, as well as multiple goats and cattle, have died after drinking water from the lake.
In a statement issued on Monday, the City of Harare said a stakeholder meeting had been convened, bringing together council experts and representatives from other government agencies to address the reports of animal deaths linked to alleged contamination.
The council also said that further investigations will be conducted, and a joint statement from the City of Harare and the Environmental Management Agency (EMA) will be issued in due course. Said the City of Harare:
<blockquote>
Teams are already on the ground to take samples on the particular part of the lake the rhinos drink from. Animals are territorial and it appears they drink from the same place.
Residents are urged to ignore exaggerated social media and media reports that the whole lake has been contaminated.
</blockquote>
Earlier, Zimparks spokesperson Tinashe Farawo said that the deaths were caused by contamination from cyanobacteria in the lake’s water.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The City of Harare in Zimbabwe is saying that reports about Lake Chivero being contaminated are not true. Animals like rhinos and zebras have died after drinking from the lake, but the council says the contamination is not as bad as it seems. They are doing further investigations to find out the exact cause. The council is asking people to ignore exaggerated reports and wait for more information. The animals might have died from toxins in the water, but more tests are needed to be sure.

Harare City Council Claims Lake Chivero Is Not Contaminated

The Harare City Council reportedly collected only US$100 in licence fees from tuckshop owners in residential areas over six months.
This was said by Harare City Council’s acting revenue collection manager, Alfred Guni when he appeared before the Commission of Inquiry, which is probing the operations of Harare City Council since 2017, chaired by retired Justice Maphios Cheda.
He said from April to September 2024, the City Council recorded only US$100 from tuckshops located in residential areas.
The paltry revenue collected from tuckshops raises suspicions of massive corruption within the council, given that almost every street in high-density residential areas has several tuckshops. Said Guni:
<blockquote>
The revenue from tuckshops in residential areas is collected by our market officers, who go around to gather these funds.
If we collect as little as US$100, it indicates a failure on the part of those designated to collect the funds.
This level of performance is concerning, given the number of tuckshops around the city.
</blockquote>
Guni conceded that the City Council is grappling with revenue leakages due to corrupt officials. He said:
<blockquote>
I would not confirm that the City Council owns tuckshops but it licenses privately owned tuckshops but what it owns are commercial buildings that are available for rental to the public.
The City made a resolution to collect tuckshop fees from those we see in our residential areas as long as they are compliant with the building inspectorate laws.
That figure does not mean nothing came but it is a percentage of a huge figure. What it means is that we are getting very low income.
</blockquote>
<section class="mt-6 leading-9 text-[1.1rem] border-b-2 border-gray-400 pb-2" id="article">
<div class="in_article">
<div>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>
</div>
</div>
</section>

The Harare City Council only collected $100 in fees from tuckshop owners in residential areas in six months. This is a very small amount of money. The council suspects corruption because there are many tuckshops in the city, but they are not collecting enough money from them. The council's revenue manager said they have problems with corrupt officials causing money to be lost. They need to fix this problem to collect more money from tuckshops.

Shock As Harare Council Collects Only $100 In Tuckshop Licence Fees Over Six Months

The City of Harare has issued a two-month notice to the owners or administrators of indoor assembly venues, such as churches, halls, hotels, restaurants, schools, universities, colleges, cinemas, beerhalls, and sports clubs, to obtain certificates from the council’s Building Inspectorate offices or face penalties.
In a public notice issued on Tuesday, November 19, Harare Town Clerk Phakamile Mabhena Moyo said that some of these venues are operating illegally and will be shut down or penalised if they fail to comply within the next two months. Reads the notice:
<blockquote>
CERTIFICATES OF PLACE OF ASSEMBLY
To owners or administrators of the following:
(a) Indoor assemblies: (thus churches, halls, hotels, restaurants, schools, universities, colleges, cinemas, beerhalls, and Sports Clubs)
(b) Building Developers and others that occupy buildings of any such use, not specified above, where the building is used for public assembly.
The City of Harare is aware that some of the above-mentioned places of indoor assemblies are operating illegally (without Certificates of Place of Assembly) in violation of Section 9 of (Building Fees and Related Matters) By-laws of 1979.
In view of the above, Council is going to close down or penalise those who remain non-compliant in the next 2 months from the date of this Notice.
Owners of such buildings mentioned above are advised to visit Building Inspectorate offices at Cleveland House, 92 Leopold Takawira Street, Harare. Failure to comply with the above means penalty charges will also be levied on the owners’ rates account.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The City of Harare is telling places like churches and schools to get special certificates or they might get shut down. The notice also includes places like hotels, restaurants, cinemas, and sports clubs. If they don't get the certificates within the next two months, they will face penalties. The City of Harare says some places are operating without the right certificates, which is against the law. Owners of these places need to go to the council's Building Inspectorate offices to get the certificates or they will face charges on their bills.

City Of Harare Orders Churches And Other Indoor Assembly Venues To Obtain Certificates

The Harare City Council (HCC) has proposed a US$1 emergency services levy per household to fund the city’s struggling emergency services, along with another US$1 levy for street lighting.
During the presentation of the 2025 budget proposal, Finance and Development Committee chair Councillor Costa Mande said that the city currently has only four functional ambulances, despite needing 32. Said Mande:
<blockquote>
Our emergency services require urgent capacitation. Out of a requirement of 32 ambulances, only four are functional.
To this effect, we are proposing the introduction of emergency services and street lighting levies in the 2025 fiscal year to augment funding.
Households will be charged US$1 as an emergency services levy and US$1 as a street lighting levy. An emergency services levy is a crucial financial tool which will provide a dedicated source of revenue to fund essential emergency services.
</blockquote>
He said the street lights levy will create a dedicated revenue stream for installing street lighting infrastructure.
Mande added that the lack of resources is worsened by customers’ unwillingness to pay.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The Harare City Council wants to charge households US$1 for emergency services and US$1 for street lighting. They need money to help their struggling emergency services, as they only have four working ambulances instead of the 32 they need. They hope this levy will create a steady income to fund these important services. The council is also struggling because people are not paying their bills. It's important to help the city have enough resources to keep everyone safe.

Harare City Council Proposes US$1 Levy For Street Lighting

Harare Mayor Councillor Jacob Mafume has said the council is working with the government to enforce demolition court orders in an orderly manner, to protect residents who may have fallen victim to land barons.
Last week, the government condemned the destruction of 30 houses in Ridgeview, Belvedere, by the Harare City Council, describing the action as inhumane.
In an interview with <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200035158/we-are-protecting-victims-from-land-barons-mayor">NewsDay</a> on Monday, Mafume said that the council has reported land barons who illegally sold land to residents to the police and is now awaiting their arrest. Said Mafume:
<blockquote>
We are working with government on the court orders. Demolitions should be done in an orderly manner but at the same time we are saying people should be compliant with the country’s laws.
We have people who have built houses where children are supposed to play. If we create a city like that, our children will not be happy.
We have reported the land barons to police and we are waiting for their arrest. Yes, if there are those who get to be regularised, they should be cleared.
</blockquote>
Reports indicate that there are 144 applicants slated for regularisation based on recent council resolutions.
One notable project, Tafara Pay Schemes, led by Everson Luni, has adhered to council by-laws for town planning.
This compliance includes the payment of application fees, circulation fees, ZESA charges, surveying fees, and costs associated with the Environmental Management Agency and sewerage services.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The Mayor of Harare is working with the government to enforce court orders for demolishing illegal structures in an orderly way. He wants to protect residents from bad people who sold them land illegally. The government was upset about 30 houses being destroyed by the council. The mayor reported the bad people to the police and is waiting for them to be arrested. Some people might be allowed to keep their homes if they follow the laws. A project in Tafara Pay Schemes showed good behavior by following all the rules and paying all the necessary fees.

Harare Mayor Pledges Orderly Enforcement Of Demolition Court Orders

The Information for Development Trust (IDT), a non-profit organisation dedicated to promoting transparency and accountability in corporate and political governance, has expressed concerns about the central government’s interference in the Harare City Council’s (HCC) efforts to demolish illegal structures. They argue that this interference poses a threat to the rule of law.
The controversy arose after Local Government and Public Works Minister Daniel Garwe announced that the government had ordered HCC to halt the demolition of homes built on illegally acquired land.
In a statement, IDT suggested that the central government’s intervention appears to be motivated more by image management than by a commitment to good governance. It added:
<blockquote>
Critics argue this undermines local authority efforts, perpetuates illegal settlements, and fails to hold land barons accountable.
The interference raises questions about the separation of powers, as political considerations override judicial rulings.
The opposition-led HCC faces persistent challenges from the ruling government, weakening public trust and service delivery.
While ensuring humane demolitions is essential, undermining the law risks creating a culture of impunity.
The government must address root causes like poverty, corruption, and housing shortages while respecting judicial independence and local authority autonomy.
Failure to strike this balance threatens governance and the rule of law in Zimbabwe.
</blockquote>
Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume recently announced that the city council plans to demolish over 5,000 illegal structures, having obtained 37 High Court orders to support the action.
The demolitions are part of an ongoing effort to address illegal constructions that have proliferated across the capital.
However, the decision to halt the demolitions for the time being has raised questions. Speaking at his ministry’s strategic workshop for 2025 in Bulawayo on Thursday, Minister Garwe said that the pause was made to avoid negative publicity as Zimbabwe prepares to host the Southern African Development Community (SADC) extraordinary summit this week.
Garwe also accused the opposition CCC-led Harare City Council of deliberately timing the demolitions to coincide with the summit.
He suggested that the council’s actions were intended to attract unwanted attention, undermining the country’s image on the international stage during such an important event.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The government is telling Harare not to knock down homes built in wrong places. A group thinks this is bad for rule of law. The government also stopped the demolition to look good for a big meeting. People are worried this is not fair. The city council wants to knock down lots of illegal buildings. They have permission from the courts. Some think the government is stopping them to avoid bad press. People say the government should fix poverty and corruption instead of stopping the law. This could make a bad impact on how the country is run.

"Government Interference In Harare Demolitions Threatens Rule Of Law"

The government has ordered the Harare City Council to stop its controversial house demolition exercise.
This came after a public outcry over the recent demolition of houses in Belvedere, which the City of Harare claims were built on land illegally acquired from land barons.
The council had initially planned to demolish over 5,000 houses in illegal settlements across the city, citing the need to enforce around 37 High Court orders.
The targeted properties, mostly located in high-density suburbs such as Kuwadzana, Budiriro, Glen View, and Mabvuku, were said to be built on land reserved for public amenities.
In an interview with <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200035136/govt-stops-harare-demolitions">NewsDay</a>, Local Government and Public Works Minister Daniel Garwe condemned the council’s actions, describing them as “inhumane.” Said Garwe:
<blockquote>
What City Council is doing is inhumane and it is not acceptable. A person takes six months to build a house and you are watching.
Then you want to come and give them a notice of 7 days to come and demolish the house. You give them a notice to relocate, where can they relocate in that short period?
At least they should give them four or five months so that they can build elsewhere.
Yes, Mafume [Harare major Jacob] has a court order, but it does not give him the right to cause people pain and suffering.
From now on, no house will be demolished. We are stopping them from doing so. That’s the government’s position.
</blockquote>
Mafume confirmed the suspension of the demolitions, saying the council would comply with the Local Government Ministry’s order to pause the enforcement of the law for the time being.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The government told the Harare City Council to stop destroying houses. People got very upset about houses being demolished in Belvedere. The council planned to destroy over 5,000 illegal houses, but the government said no. The houses were built on land meant for public use. The Minister said it was not fair to kick people out of their homes with only 7 days' notice. Now, the council has to stop demolishing houses for now.

Government Orders Harare City Council To Stop Demolitions

Justice Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi on Tuesday said that the government is investigating the recent demolitions of houses in Harare carried out by the opposition-dominated City Council without a court order.
This comes after members of parliament questioned the reasons behind the demolitions. Ziyambi said that the government was not involved, adding that no court order had been issued for the demolitions. He said:
<blockquote>
In fact, in this particular case, it is the Municipality of Harare that demolished the houses without a court order.
Everything that the honourable member has said falls squarely into the hands of the city authorities.
They are the ones that have been allowing the buildings to be built. They are the ones that have demolished, you can go and check, they were demolished without even a court order and we have also requested that this be investigated.
</blockquote>
Ziyambi also concurred with fellow legislators that authorities should prevent the illegal construction of houses and not wait until the houses have been completed to effect demolitions. He said:
<blockquote>
I agree with you. Why wait until a house has been built and then you send bulldozers to destroy it? Some of the houses were beautiful structures and it is not even fair to those people.
So, I believe it is a point of national interest but it is a point that our local authorities largely controlled by the opposition, must also have a humane face and be able to articulate some of these issues from a human rights perspective.
</blockquote>
On Wednesday, November 13, the City of Harare said that it had intervened to stop illegal land allocations by land barons in the Belvedere area, specifically in Ridgeview, where unauthorised developments had been taking place.
In a statement, the City confirmed that the land in question is legally owned by the local authority and is designated for residential use.
Approved for development in 2002, the area contains 52 unserviced residential stands, with valuations completed by the Council in 2021.
The city council said that despite the land being unserviced—lacking basic infrastructure such as water, sewer systems, roads, and drainage—a company called Brickstone Builders and Contractors illegally occupied 15 of these stands and began constructing structures.
In 2022, the City of Harare met with Brickstone Builders to inform them that they needed to follow proper procedures to acquire Council land. However, by July 2023, illegal construction had resumed, posing health risks to the surrounding community.
Brickstone Builders claimed to have received a land allocation letter from the Ministry of Local Government, but the Ministry later disowned the document, confirming it was fraudulent.
Despite receiving 48-hour notices from the Council to halt construction, the company obtained a court interdict based on the fake letter, which prohibited further development.
However, when Brickstone Builders ignored the court order and continued building, the City of Harare took action and demolished 30 of the illegal structures.
According to the council, the remaining three structures, covered by the interdict, will be addressed through further legal action.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The government is investigating the demolition of houses in Harare by the City Council without permission. The City Council demolished houses without a court order. The government said the city authorities allowed the buildings to be built and then demolished them illegally. The City Council stopped illegal construction by a company in Belvedere, where the land was legally owned by the city. The company had fake documents and ignored court orders, leading to the demolition of 30 structures. The council will take legal action against the remaining three structures.

Government Launches Investigation Into "Illegal" House Demolitions In Harare

<h2>The City of Harare on Wednesday, November 13, issued a statement on the recent demolition of 30 houses in Ridgeview, Belvedere.</h2>
<h2>The local authority said it has taken action to stop illegal land allocation by land barons in Belvedere, specifically in Ridgeview, where unauthorized developments were taking place. Below is the statement:</h2>
<blockquote>
Belvedere Demolitions: The Facts
The City of Harare is determined to stop land barons from illegally parcelling out land to unsuspecting residents and this criminality has to be stopped. It is important that we protect residents from criminals who falsify documents and sell the land to innocent victims. In the case of the Belvedere demolitions here are the facts below.
i. The land in question is Ridgeview Belvedere described as remainder of Salisbury Township Lands(STL) Plan Number TP2F/2219/3 which was approved in 2002.
ii. This land is legally owned by the City of Harare and is designated for residential purposes. This piece of Council land has fifty-two (52) unserviced residential stands. The valuation of the stands was done and approved by Council in 2021. Before Council could allocate the stands, the land was invaded by individuals led by a company going by the name Brickstone Builders and Contractors Private Limited. At that material time they erected wooden cabins on 15 stands.
iii. The stands do not have the requisite water, sewer, roads and storm water drains which are required before one can settle on land.
iv. In 2022 meetings chaired by His Worship, Mayor of the City of Harare Clr.J. Mafume were held between Council and representatives of Brickstone Builders and Contractors (Pvt) Ltd. During the meetings, Council informed the illegal invaders to follow due process in acquiring Council land.
v. Contrary to the advice given during the meetings, Council noticed that developments had started on the ground in July 2023. The illegal developments paused a health hazard to the neighboring community.
vi. The illegal developments sparked an outrage from the neighboring community.
vii. Council responded to the illegal developments by instituting demolitions during that month. Brickstone Building and Contractors Private Limited took Council to court indicating that the company had been allocated the land by the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works. They attached the letter from the Ministry signed by a Mr. Madzivire. On inquiry from the Ministry, Council was advised by the Ministry that the letter was fake and Mr. Madzivire distanced himself from authoring that letter. The Chief Director Spatial Planning Mr. Mushamba also distanced the Ministry from the allocation of council land to Brickstone.
viii. The City of Harare issued 48 hour notices to the occupants to stop developments and in response to the notices, Brickstone Building and Contractors Private Limited, using fraudulent documents, approached the Court and were granted an interdict on the basis of the fake documents.
ix. The interdict was granted on condition that the status quo was to remain and that no further developments were to be undertaken by the illegal invaders.
x. The illegal invaders did not take heed of the interdict and proceeded to construct structures on the piece land without approved architectural building plans as well as the attendant mandatory inspections.
xi. In compliance with the relevant terms of the interdict, the City moved in to demolish those structures that were developed after the issuance of the interdict. The structures that were covered by the interdict were left intact.
xii. Thirty (30) illegal structures at various stages of construction were demolished.
xiii. The City of Harare has since approached the Courts for a court order to demolish the 3 that were covered by the interdict.
The City of Harare remains committed to addressing urban challenges and ensuring the well-being of its residents. The demolitions will also dissuade land barons who have remained undeterred and continue selling stands to desperate home seekers.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The City of Harare demolished 30 houses in Belvedere to stop illegal land allocation. The land belongs to the city and was invaded by a company called Brickstone Builders. The company used fake documents to claim the land. The city gave notices to stop development, but the company continued. The city then demolished the illegal structures. The city is committed to protecting residents and stopping land barons from selling land illegally. They are also seeking a court order to demolish the remaining illegal structures.

City of Harare Latest News

Latest Jobs