Online Reporter
Sikhumbuzo Moyo
BULAWAYO residents have largely thrown their weight behind City Council’s push to crank up littering fines, but many warn that the proposed hike, a staggering 1 000 percent, could hit too hard if not properly managed.
From Mpopoma to the CBD, litter has become a citywide eyesore. At present, offenders pay between Level 1 ($5) and Level 3 ($30), but councillors say these penalties no longer scare anyone, least of all companies dumping waste with impunity.
During a recent full council meeting, councillors tasked the Health, Housing and Education Committee, chaired by Ward 17’s Cllr Sikhululekile Moyo, to urgently review the matter and bring forward recommendations.
Environmental advocates were quick to back the move. Bulawayo Vendors and Traders Association director, Michael Ndiweni, applauded council for taking a firm stance, saying the principle is simple: polluter must pay.
“It’s a solid recommendation. Even the Kyoto Protocol says the polluter pays. It’s your responsibility to keep the city clean. I fully support council because right now there are no effective or punitive measures for littering, especially for companies,” he said.
Bulawayo Residents Association (BURA) chairperson, Winos Dube, echoed the need for stronger deterrents but said the suggested $300 fine was too steep for the average resident. He believes a moderated rise, around $50, would be fairer.
“We don’t condone littering at all. But jumping from $30 to $300 is too harsh. We understand the intention to deter offenders, but what about someone who accidentally drops something? Will they afford such a penalty?” he asked.
On the ground, many residents share similar sentiments. Pelanda West resident Chengeto Rwizi backed the fine increase but raised concerns about potential abuse by enforcement officers.
“It’s good for the fines to go up, but I foresee a situation where innocent people may be accused of littering and officers demand freedom money that is far less than the real fine. The proposal is noble, our city must regain its status, but enforcement must be fair,” she said.
