Online Reporter
Freedom Mupanedemo [email protected]
GWERU City Council (GCC) has increased the on-the-spot fine for littering from US$30 to US$50 with immediate effect as the local authority intensifies efforts to combat littering, illegal dumping and environmental degradation.
The move marks a significant hike from the previous penalty, which was introduced in April as part of a broader anti-litter campaign aimed at restoring cleanliness and improving waste management in the Midlands capital.
Gweru director of health services Mr Samson Sekenhamo confirmed the increase, saying the decision underscores the council’s commitment to enforcing public health by-laws and promoting responsible waste disposal.
“The increase is necessary to ensure compliance and send a clear message that littering will not be tolerated,” he said.
Mr Sekenhamo said council resolved to increase the penalty to strengthen enforcement and ensure greater compliance with municipal by-laws.
“We are working to safeguard public health and sustain a clean, orderly, and environmentally responsible Gweru,” he said.
The latest measure follows a series of interventions introduced by the local authority, including a 14-day ultimatum issued to businesses to regularise refuse disposal practices and provide approved waste receptacles.
“Investigations revealed that some businesses were disposing of refuse at designated skip points after scheduled morning collections, leading to waste accumulation and unsanitary conditions in parts of the central business district and surrounding areas,” he said.
Mr Sekenhamo said the city, through its Integrated Solid Waste Management Plan 2026-2030, is seeking to move away from the traditional collect-and-dispose approach towards a circular economy model.
The strategy aims to reduce the volume of waste sent to dumpsites from nearly 100 percent to 40 percent through increased recycling, reuse and waste prevention initiatives.
“With the fine now increased to US$50 following council’s resolution, our message remains clear: ‘keep Gweru clean, or pay the price’,” Mr Sekenhamo added.
Meanwhile, town clerk Mr Livingston Churu said the council was equally concerned about the growing problem of construction waste and recurring sewer blockages across the city.
“Effective immediately, the fine for littering has been increased to US$50. This measure is not intended to punish, but to deter careless disposal of waste that blights our neighbourhoods and harms our environment. Let’s take pride in our city. Please dispose of your rubbish responsibly. Remember do not trash it but bin it.”
Mr Churu said all construction waste must now be disposed of exclusively at the council-designated site near Mutasa Cemetery along Woodlands Road.
“Dumping waste elsewhere is strictly prohibited and will attract penalties. Proper disposal keeps our city safe, clean, and beautiful. I urge all residents and construction companies to adhere to this directive,” he said.
The town clerk also expressed concern over the increasing number of sewer blockages and bursts reported in suburbs including Senga, Ascot, Athlone, Mkoba 14, Mtapa, Mambo, Woodlands and KMP.
According to council, the blockages are largely caused by residents flushing inappropriate materials such as sanitary pads, wet wipes and plastic products into the sewer system.
“This is a serious health hazard and drains Council resources that could be used for better service delivery. I appeal to every resident: only flush human waste and toilet paper. Our sewer system is a shared resource, its health depends on your responsible actions,” he said.
