Online Reporter
Laura Maposa
THE Government is concerned with the waste management situation in Harare, the Minister of State for Harare Metropolitan Province, Charles Tavengwa, has said.
He said the accumulation of waste around the capital has a negative impact which affects potential investors and increases the risk of outbreaks of diseases such as cholera, typhoid and malaria.
Min Tavengwa was speaking at the launch of Operation Chenesa Phase Three in Harare.
“The Government is typically concerned about the current situation and the Operation Chenesa 3 initiative is very important at this pivotal moment.
“This creates a negative impact on investments and the pride and dignity of our country.
“The noble cause is to make sure that our surroundings are clean and litter free.
“The build-up of uncollected waste creates an operating ground for mosquitoes and flies.
“These cause a significant threat to the health and well-being of our citizens and increase the risk of outbreaks of diseases such as cholera, typhoid and malaria.
“We cannot allow our city to become a hazard, we have a responsibility to protect our environment for future generations”
He said the impact of all this on the city’s economy was huge.
“All this has a negative impact on investment as it creates a negative impression for potential investments, undermines our efforts, which are crucial for economic growth and job creation.
“We cannot afford to have our name tarnished by unmanaged waste.
“We must reclaim our city and restore the cleanliness that has always been there. It’s a strain to resources, the longer we delay in addressing this issue, the more the cost and effort which is required.
“It puts a strain on our limited resources.”
He is happy with the participation of the private sector in the Chenesa Harare initiative.
“I am pleased that the private sector has again donated equipment for the programme free of charge, that is, tipper trucks, refuse compactors, branded loaders and many others.
“On behalf of the Government, I would like to express my gratitude for the generous gesture which will be instrumental in achieving the objectives of enhancing the ambiance and the aesthetics of the city, its commercial and residential areas.
“The waste management issue has to be resolved very soon. We welcome this project to improve the state of the country.”
Mathew Masinge