derick.khumalo
Ivan Zhakata Zimpapers Correspondent
LOCAL authorities have been ordered to intensify enforcement against owners of dilapidated and poorly maintained properties, with abatement orders to be issued against buildings and premises deemed unsafe, unsanitary or otherwise unacceptable.
The directive by the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works forms part of the ongoing National Clean-Up Campaign aimed at restoring cleanliness, safety, order and functionality in cities, towns and growth points across the country.
Speaking at a press conference in Harare yesterday, Local Government and Public Works Minister Daniel Garwe said the enforcement measures will cover shopping centres, business complexes, industrial properties, office buildings, churches and other places of worship, as well as residential properties.
“The Ministry has taken note of the continued deterioration of our built environment. This includes the condition of our roads, lighting, shopping complexes, buildings and public spaces in all local authorities across the country,” he said.
Minister Garwe said the situation has been compounded by widespread violations of local authority by-laws, including trading from undesignated areas and construction without the required inspections and approvals.
Under the directive, councils are expected to initiate processes for issuing abatement orders against property owners and occupiers whose buildings, boundary walls, pavements, yards and surrounding areas are unsafe, unsanitary, dilapidated or otherwise in an unacceptable condition.
Property owners will be required to undertake repairs, renovations, repainting, cleaning and refurbishment to bring their properties to acceptable standards.
Failure to comply could result in penalties provided for under applicable legislation, including a fine of up to Level Five, imprisonment for up to six months or both.
Minister Garwe also ordered local planning authorities to intensify action against illegal and unregulated developments.
He said planning authorities have powers under the Regional, Town and Country Planning Act [Chapter 29:12], including Sections 32 to 34 to act against unauthorised developments and unlawful building works.
Where illegal developments are identified, enforcement orders will be issued requiring responsible persons to stop, rectify or otherwise remedy the unlawful works.
The Minister said the ongoing removal of vendors and hawkers operating from undesignated areas will continue and the Government was not seeking to prevent people from earning a living.
He directed councils to renovate and improve existing vending sites to ensure they were safe and habitable, while amended Hawkers and Vendors By-Laws will soon be released.
In Harare, particular attention will be given to the Central Business District, especially First Street, which Minister Garwe described as an important gateway and commercial corridor.
“Our cities and towns must be places where people can work, conduct business, move safely and live in clean orderly environments,” he said.
He said the clean-up campaign will be an ongoing programme involving restoration, enforcement, rehabilitation and improved service delivery, extending beyond major urban centres to growth points in rural areas.
