Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume Tells Struggling Residents To Consider Moving To Cheaper Towns And Growth Points
Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume has sparked debate over the future of the capital’s urban management after suggesting that people struggling to cope with the city’s high cost of living should consider moving to cheaper areas elsewhere in Zimbabwe.
Mafume made the remarks during an interview on Star FM, where he argued that Harare’s primary role should be as a commercial centre rather than a place where people remain despite being unable to afford the cost of urban life.
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Mayor Says Harare Is Primarily A Business Centre
Mafume said people whose income no longer allows them to comfortably sustain themselves in the capital should consider relocating to towns, growth points and other areas where living costs may be more manageable.
“The capital city is not a refugee camp. It’s a place of business,” Mafume said.
He pointed to Zimbabwe’s network of smaller towns and growth points as alternatives for people who find Harare increasingly unaffordable.
“This country is big. For those who are unable to live in Harare because it is expensive, we have towns created by the government, growth points, small towns, and farms.”
His comments come against the backdrop of broader challenges facing Harare, including pressure on housing, public spaces and basic services.
Council Plans Action On Street Begging
Mafume further said the council plans to work with central government to address the presence of vulnerable people and street begging in Harare.
He said children living on the streets would be removed from the city’s streets, while measures would also be taken to address public begging.
“We are going to make sure that street kids are removed, and begging [is addressed],” Mafume stated.
According to the mayor, the council intends to work with the Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare to identify designated facilities where vulnerable people can receive care and rehabilitation.
The post ‘Harare Is Not A Refugee Camp’: Jacob Mafume Tells Struggling Residents To Consider Moving To Cheaper Towns And Growth Points appeared first on iHarare News.
