Sundaymail Editor
Your Money, Your Call
Cresencia Marjorie Chiremba
A STORM has erupted over the misuse of public parking spaces at the Kuwadzana 6 Shopping Centre.
As night falls and the area’s bars come alive, a shadowy group takes control of the parking lot, demanding payment from unsuspecting motorists.
This has left residents and patrons feeling cheated, prompting calls for the Harare City Council to urgently intervene and restore order.
The parking lot is city council property and should officially be free of charge for the public. However, the reality on the ground is different.
Motorists who park there are approached by individuals who charge fees for “allowing” them to use the space.
No parking tickets or receipts are issued, leaving drivers with no assurance of where their money is going or how it is being used.
One affected motorist shared her frustration, saying she was shocked when a man demanded payment for parking her car in a public space.
When she asked if the council had introduced fees, he simply laughed and said: “Pay or take the risk.”
This is nothing short of extortion.
If there are official parking fees, then the city council should be collecting them — not these individuals.
This problem is concentrated around the Kuwadzana 6 Shopping Centre, particularly near the popular bars that attract crowds of patrons at night.
These bars draw significant foot traffic, making the parking lot a convenient spot for revellers.
However, the car park has now become a cash cow for this rogue group, which has taken it upon itself to charge unsuspecting customers, often threatening to vandalise or steal the vehicles if payment is not made.
Residents argue if parking fees are indeed introduced, the funds should be directed to the city council and used to improve infrastructure in the area.
Suggestions from community members include the development of other parking lots, which are currently dusty and potholed, the installation of proper lighting and enhanced security measures to safeguard vehicles of patrons at these bars and shops.
If the council was collecting these fees, it could reinvest in developing the area and make it safer for everyone.
However, the residents are, instead, being left at the mercy of these individuals.
Many now question council’s inaction.
Beyond financial exploitation, the absence of official oversight contributes to a growing sense of lawlessness around the shopping centre.
Residents demand immediate action from the city council to address the situation.
Suggested measures include deployment of enforcement officers to monitor parking and prevent unauthorised individuals from charging motorists, establishment of a transparent parking fee system if charges are to be introduced, including the issuance of tickets or receipts, and use of the revenue for infrastructure improvements.
Others are suggesting collaboration with residents and business owners to develop a sustainable solution that ensures the area’s safety and maintenance.
As residents continue their daily lives, the question remains: Will the council finally address their concerns or will parking lots remain under the control of such rogue elements?
Cresencia Marjorie Chiremba is a marketing consultant with a strong passion for customer service/experience. Contact details: [email protected] or +263712979461, 0719978335, 0772978335, www.customersuccess.co.zw
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