Peter Tanyanyiwa
Herald Reporter
The City of Harare has escalated enforcement operations against illegal developments and unlawful activities in Ward 18, in a decisive move aimed at restoring order and safeguarding property values in the upmarket suburbs of Borrowdale, Mandara, Gletwin and Shawasha.
Ward 18 Councillor, Rufaro Matsika, who also chairs the Business Committee, said council would adopt a zero-tolerance approach towards the proliferation of unregulated structures, illegal land allocations, drug-related activities and informal trading.
The intervention follows mounting concern from residents over increasing disorder in the area, including the spread of makeshift shebeens, indiscriminate dumping of waste and unauthorised commercial activities within residential zones.
Clr Matsika said the local authority could no longer allow lawlessness to erode the integrity of one of Harare’s most prestigious residential areas.
“We are deeply concerned by the level of illegal developments and activities taking place across Mandara, Gletwin, Shawasha, Borrowdale and surrounding areas. These actions are not only unlawful, but are also eroding property values and undermining the standards that residents rightfully expect,” she said.
She warned that property owners and operators in breach of municipal by-laws and planning regulations should urgently regularise their operations or face stern action.
“Those engaging in unlawful developments must desist forthwith. Council will not hesitate to enforce the law, including the demolition of illegal structures where there is continued non-compliance. We urge all affected parties to act before enforcement teams move in,” said Clr Matsika.
Residents have reportedly raised strong objections over the deterioration of their neighbourhoods, citing noise pollution, littering and rising criminal activities linked to unregulated businesses and informal settlements.
Clr Matsika acknowledged the resource constraints faced by council, but commended residents for their vigilance and cooperation in reporting violations.
“While we face limitations in terms of routine patrols, we commend residents for their active role in safeguarding their communities. Their support is critical in ensuring that law and order are maintained,” she said.
Addressing the issue of littering and environmental degradation, Clr Matsika said council’s efforts were aligned with the national vision championed by President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who has consistently called for clean, orderly and world-class cities through nationwide clean-up campaigns.
“We fully support and complement the vision of His Excellency, President Mnangagwa, in promoting clean, safe and world-class communities. As a city, we are intensifying clean-up campaigns, including grass cutting and refuse collection, but residents must also take responsibility for maintaining their surroundings,” she said.
She stressed that adherence to city planning and zoning regulations was non-negotiable, particularly in relation to informal trading.
“Let each activity be done according to approved zoning and planning regulations. If there are no designated vending spaces in certain areas at present, then so be it until such facilities are formally established. The law must be followed,” she said.
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