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Blessings Chidakwa, Herald Reporter
GOVERNMENT has enlisted the services of a private waste management company to rescue Harare residents following the local authority’s declaration of incapacity in providing essential services such as solid waste collection.
For years now, Harare residents have been getting a raw deal from Harare City Council, which has failed to deliver basic services such as clean water and refuse collection. This has resulted in outbreaks of water-borne diseases.
As a result of a dearth in service provision, residents of the capital city have been repeatedly exposed to diseases such as cholera and typhoid.
Last year, President Mnangagwa declared a “state of disaster” in response to the deteriorating waste management situation in Harare.
Addressing a press conference in the capital yesterday, Local Government and Public Works Minister Daniel Garwe explained that the declaration by President Mnangagwa led to temporary Government measures to assist the city, culminating in a long-term solution.
“In August 2024, the city appealed to the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works for intervention in solid waste management. The Government responded with the Chenesa Harare Phase 1 and 2 operations, while seeking a sustainable solution,” Minister Garwe said.
Eventually, the Minister added, Government then opted to involve the private sector, with Geo Pomona Waste Management submitting an Expression of Interest for refuse collection and waste management.
Minister Garwe noted that Geo Pomona Waste Management already has an established partnership with Harare on a Waste to Energy project at the Pomona dumpsite.
“Through this private sector collaboration, we are confident that our Sunshine City will see immediate improvements in solid waste management,” he said.
Geo Pomona Waste Management is recognised for transforming the once-polluted Pomona dumpsite into a state-of-the-art facility featuring public parks, sports amenities, and other social spaces.
Dr Dilesh Nguwaya, Chief Executive Officer and Executive Chairman of Geo Pomona Waste Management, expressed gratitude for being entrusted with the responsibility of waste collection in Harare.
“Waste management has been a persistent challenge for our nation, and expectations for this initiative are understandably high. We are committed to ensuring we deliver on this critical mandate,” he said.
Dr Nguwaya outlined plans to target illegal dump sites across the city, adding that a cleaner Harare would not only enhance the city’s beauty, but also improve public health and protect the environment.
Efforts will focus on high-traffic areas such as the Central Business District (CBD), Mbare, major roads, bus termini and shopping centres.
“Our goal is to keep these areas consistently clean and free of waste. Geo Pomona Waste Management has already demonstrated its capabilities by transforming the dumpsite into a well-managed facility that is recognised regionally,” Dr Nguwaya said.
Speaking at the same occasion, Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume was optimistic about the partnership with Geo Pomona Waste Management, describing it as the beginning of a new era in waste management for the capital.
“While issues can arise in contracts, I believe engagement and collaboration will help us address any challenges. The reality is that waste is accumulating, and it must be removed,” he said.
Mayor Mafume highlighted the advantage of Government assistance, noting that the costs would not be immediately borne by the residents of Harare.
“This is a win-win situation. The prompt execution of this partnership will bring about the improvements we desperately need,” he said.
The Mayor also acknowledged the changes at the Pomona dumpsite, which, under Geo Pomona’s management, is no longer the eyesore it once was.
“By this time last year, we were facing serious issues like fires and unpleasant odours that affected local schools and property values. Now, residents can see tangible improvements,” he said.
Mayor Mafume said modalities for the distribution of waste management between the city council and the private company are being worked on.
Online Reporter