Online Reporter
Remember Deketeke
Municipal Correspondent
AUTHORITIES have called for a full investigation into alleged negligence by the City of Harare leading to the deaths of three people in a sewer-filled pit in Budiriro 3 suburb.
The three bodies were recovered from an open excavation linked to sewer rehabilitation works in Budiriro 3 New Stands.
The tragedy has triggered widespread concern over safety standards at council excavation sites and the lack of supervision and protection of the works.
Among those demanding a detailed investigation and a total revamp of how the city council manages safety at infrastructure projects are Minister of State for Harare Metropolitan Provincial Affairs and Devolution Senator Charles Tawengwa and the Combined Harare Residents Association.
The sewer pit was dug in September last year according to latest reports, contrary to earlier reports that suggested it had been excavated in February.
In a statement yesterday, Combined Harare Residents Association chairperson Mr Rueben Akili described the deaths as avoidable and blamed them on what he described as council’s failure to observe basic safety requirements.
“As Combined Harare Residents Association, we will engage the Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission in line with its constitutional mandate under Section 243 of the Constitution to investigate incidents of alleged negligence by the City of Harare that continue to result in avoidable injuries and loss of life,” he said.
“The families of the deceased deserve justice, and there must be accountability from those responsible for ensuring public safety during council projects.”
Mr Akili said the Budiriro tragedy should serve as a wake-up call for authorities to place emphasis on public safety whenever infrastructure projects are undertaken in residential areas.
“The City of Harare’s lack of due diligence directly contributed to this unnecessary and preventable tragedy,” he said.
“We categorically state that this incident is a direct result of negligence by the responsible department within the City of Harare. We demand that the department and the officials involved be thoroughly investigated and held accountable for their actions.”
The residents association said the incident reflected a broader pattern of concerns regarding the management of public works projects across the capital city.
“The Budiriro incident should not be viewed in isolation. It reflects the gross negligence that has become commonplace within the local authority, where open pits and incomplete works are often left unattended and without adequate barricades, posing serious dangers to residents,” said Combined Harare Residents Association.
Harare mayor, Councillor Jacob Mafume, acknowledged that negligence could have played a role in the tragedy and confirmed that investigations had been launched.
He said council officials, contractors and site managers would be required to explain why the excavation remained open and accessible for a prolonged period.
“We have launched an investigation. Clearly, where people die, there must be some culpability,” said Clr Mafume.
He said concerns had been raised over whether established safety procedures had been followed.
Council experts, working together with the police, had been tasked with determining the extent of negligence and identifying those responsible.
