Clean-up campaigns were initiated to raise awareness among the populace about the need to keep the city clean. While these campaigns have helped people understand the importance of maintaining cleanliness, they have largely failed to highlight the broader impact of indiscriminate littering beyond the spread of diseases.
Their effectiveness has been marginal, with a key missing element being the enforcement of laws to penalize littering—especially plastic bottles, which are the primary culprits in clogging drainage systems.
Plastic bottles, in particular, have become a major issue, obstructing drainage systems and contributing to urban flooding. It is high time for the relevant authorities to push for legislation or bylaws that impose penalties on those who litter in the streets or throw waste out of moving vehicles.
Enacting and strictly enforcing such laws would serve as a deterrent, fostering more responsible waste disposal behavior among citizens.When the clean-up campaign was launched, CCC-led councils did not participate, citing it as a ZANU PF program.
This lack of involvement has had far-reaching consequences, with drainage systems now severely compromised. The recent rains in Harare caused extensive street flooding, bringing traffic to a standstill. The situation was worsened by blocked drainage systems—an issue that could have been avoided with proper waste disposal practices.
Additionally, some shop floors were flooded, leading to significant damage to property and goods. Ironically, some of the businesses affected were among those that had resisted placing bins in front of their premises. Every business building was advised to provide a bin, yet some failed to comply. Passengers are also encouraged to use bins provided in kombis and buses, but some transporters have neglected to include them, further aggravating the litter problem.
The cost of ignoring these issues extends beyond financial losses to environmental and social consequences. The flooding and property damage underscore the urgent need for stricter waste management policies and greater public cooperation. Authorities must take immediate action by implementing and enforcing laws that hold individuals and businesses accountable for their waste disposal practices.
Doing so would not only reduce the risk of flooding but also contribute to a cleaner and healthier city.Efforts should also focus on educating the public about the wider implications of littering, beyond health concerns. Community engagement and awareness programs can play a crucial role in shifting attitudes toward responsible waste disposal. By working together, the city can overcome these challenges and move toward a cleaner, more sustainable future.
