The City of Harare has finally come under scrutiny from across the political spectrum for its undeniable incompetence.
No longer can the council hide behind claims of ZANU PF interference, as even staunch opposition supporters have started to question the performance of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC)-led City Council. Prominent opposition figures, including Brian Rupiya, William Madzimbamuto, and Kuda ‘Begottenson’ Musasiwa, have voiced their concerns about the CCC-run council’s failure to perform basic functions, such as clearing the streets of rubbish. The once-proud Sunshine City has become a shadow of its former self, with litter piling up in every corner.
The time has come for Harare residents to rise up and demand accountability from the Mayor Mafume-led council. Legal action and civil protests may be necessary to compel the council to fulfill its duties. A boycott of rate payments could send a strong message that residents will no longer pay for services that the council fails to deliver. The council’s excuse of lacking arresting powers to deal with littering is baffling, considering that it exercises those same powers to clamp vehicles and confiscate vendors’ goods. This selective enforcement is both inconsistent and frustrating for residents.
Harare residents need to abandon the habit of politicizing incompetence. The City of Bulawayo, also opposition-led, has managed to maintain cleanliness, showing that efficient management is achievable. It’s time to stop making excuses for Harare’s failure.
With the rainy season approaching, the city’s inability to manage waste collection could have deadly consequences. Mounds of uncollected garbage will lead to the spread of waterborne diseases like cholera and typhoid, posing a serious threat to public health. The council’s negligence is not just inconvenient—it’s endangering lives.
To tackle Harare’s waste crisis, here are some proposed actions: Consider suing the City of Harare to fulfill its obligations to residents. Launch a petition gathering at least one million signatures to demand accountability, with a clear message for the council to “shape up or ship out.”
Use social media and other platforms to launch a #RestoreSunshineCityStatus campaign. Withhold rate payments until the council provides litter bins in all public spaces and commits to regular waste collection.
