Online Reporter
Patrick Chitumba, pchitumba1@gmail
GWERU City Council (GCC) has issued a 14-day ultimatum to business operators to regularise refuse disposal practices amid growing concerns over improper waste management and emerging public health risks.
The development comes after the Government banned the sale of second-hand clothing in the central business districts of local authorities and has also prohibited all-night vending, effective immediately.
Local authorities were directed by the Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Daniel Garwe, to implement the ban humanely.
In a latest public health notice, GCC said the council raised alarm over incidents of overflowing skip bins and unsanitary conditions in parts of the central business district and surrounding areas.
Director of health services, Mr Samson Sekenhamo, said the local authority is working within the confines of the Government directive.
“Investigations revealed that some businesses are disposing of refuse at designated skip bin points after scheduled morning collections, often using hired push carts, resulting in waste accumulation,” he said.
Mr Sekenhamo said further assessments showed that several business premises either lack adequate refuse receptacles or have none at all — an offence under the Gweru Public Health By-Laws.
In its notice, the council reminded property owners and occupiers that Statutory Instrument 12 of 1982 requires the provision of approved refuse bins positioned in accessible areas for collection, while Statutory Instrument 13 of 1982 stipulates that Class “A” refuse must be stored exclusively in approved receptacles fitted with close-fitting lids.
“All business operators have, therefore, been directed to procure and maintain approved refuse receptacles within 14 days of the notice,” he said.
Mr Sekenhamo said refuse receptacles must be placed in sanitary lanes or on the front of premises at all times and on pavements between 5am and 7am on collection days and kept covered and in a hygienic condition.
Mr Sekenhamo warned that non-compliance will attract penalties in terms of public health regulations. Businesses requiring clarification on approved refuse containers have been advised to consult the council’s Cleansing Department.
He emphasised that the co-operation of business operators is essential in safeguarding public health and sustaining a clean, orderly and environmentally responsible Gweru.
