Tinaye Agere
Harmony Agere
The City of Harare has entered into a waste collection partnership with Geo Pomona Waste Management, a move that will see the company take charge of refuse collection in designated areas across the city.
The deal expands on their existing partnership on managing the Pomona dumpsite, where Geo Pomona is constructing a waste-to-energy recycling plant.
Under the new agreement, Geo Pomona will not only continue managing the Pomona dumpsite but will also take on the responsibility of waste collection across Harare.
Local Government and Public Works Minister Daniel Garwe announced the deal on Monday, explaining that it was driven by City of Harare’s financial constraints, which have hindered its ability to effectively collect and manage solid waste.
“Geo Pomona Waste Management, a leading player in the field, submitted an expression of interest to the Ministry and the City of Harare for refuse collection and waste management,” Minister Garwe said.
“Given their existing partnership with the city on managing the Pomona dumpsite, the government is confident that, through private sector participation, our Sunshine City will see an immediate improvement in solid waste management.”
Harare Mayor, Councillor Jacob Mafume, explained that the new deal is intended to address waste management issues at the household level.
“Previously, the challenge with the Pomona partnership was that Geo Pomona was waiting for waste to be brought to the dump site, but that wasn’t happening efficiently. Now, as they manage the dumpsite, they will also be responsible for waste collection,” Mafume said.
Geo Pomona Waste Management CEO and executive chairman Dr Dilesh Nguwaya expressed the company’s commitment to the new role, prioritising the clearing of dumpsites in central Harare, Mbare, bus termini and major shopping centers.
“We are deeply honored to have been entrusted with the responsibility of waste collection in Harare. Waste management has been a persistent challenge for the nation, and the expectations for this initiative are understandably high,” Dr Nguwaya said.
“As Geo Pomona Waste Management, we are committed to delivering on this critical mandate. Our initial focus will be on clearing illegal dumpsites and restoring cleanliness in high-traffic areas, such as the CBD, Mbare, bus termini, shopping centers, and major roads.”
Online Reporter