Online Reporter
Diana Nherera
The City of Gweru has recovered more than US$450 000 through an ongoing debt recovery blitz targeting residents and businesses with outstanding rates and utility bills, as council intensifies efforts to improve revenue collection and service delivery.
The exercise has seen 30 premises being shut down for non-payment, with 28 of the affected property owners subsequently settling their accounts to avoid further legal action.
Acting director of finance Mr Michael Verenga said the debt recovery campaign, which remains underway, was aimed at compelling ratepayers to clear outstanding debts owed to the local authority.
Council had initially projected to recover US$1,5 million from the exercise. Mr Verenga said about 400 summons had been issued to defaulters, while 30 cases resulted in the attachment of property.
Although collections have not yet reached the targeted amount, he described the campaign as successful, citing increased compliance among debtors.
“The debt recovery blitz is still ongoing and we encourage all residents and businesses with outstanding balances to regularise their accounts before further enforcement measures are taken,” he said.
Mr Verenga warned that failure to settle rates and utility bills could result in legal action, property attachments, service disconnections and additional costs.
“If you have arrears, visit the City of Gweru offices immediately and apply for a payment plan,” he said.
“Paying rates and utility charges is not only a legal obligation, but also helps fund essential services such as water supply, sewer management, refuse collection and other critical municipal services.”
He urged residents and businesses to engage the council proactively to avoid litigation and associated penalties.
“The best way to avoid legal action is to engage the council early and pay your bills on time,” said Mr Verenga.
Local authorities across the country have increasingly turned to debt recovery measures as they seek to strengthen revenue collection and improve the provision of basic services amid rising operational costs.
