Online Reporter
Mkhululi Ncube, Zimpapers Writer
TSHOLOTSHO Rural District Council (RDC) says it is owed more than US$1,6 million by residents and businesses — a debt that is crippling service delivery and stalling development projects.
Tsholotsho, which was granted town board status in 2023, has experienced rapid growth and increasing demand for housing. However, council officials say non-payment of rates is undermining efforts to meet service delivery obligations, despite pressure from the Government for councils to deliver.
Chief Executive Officer, Mr Nkululeko Sibanda, said the failure by residents and businesses to pay their dues is weighing heavily on the council’s ability to function.
“We are facing challenges with some of our residents and businesses who are not playing their part in the service delivery matrix. We have engaged them and issued notices encouraging them to make payment plans. We have even referred some cases to our lawyers for action. How can we collect refuse or maintain roads when so much money is owed by residents and businesses?” he asked.
Mr Sibanda said the council has been forced to shelve key projects due to financial constraints.
“We have the Vundlana suburb, which has not been connected to water and sewer services due to non-payment of rates. We also have a problem with our landfill, which needs to be developed to meet Environmental Management Agency-approved standards,” he said.
Mr Sibanda added that poor drainage in the business centre is another pressing issue requiring urgent funding.
“The drainage system in the business centre is very poor, and during the rainy season, the situation becomes unbearable. We need funds to address this, and the total amount owed stands at US$1 676 350,75,” said Mr Sibanda.
Meanwhile, Tsholotsho RDC is pressing ahead with establishing structures to support its new town board status.
A town board administrator, bookkeeper and planner have already been appointed, while some departments are being relocated to the town board as part of the transition towards a standalone administration. —@themkhust
