City of Harare Warns That It Will Close Down Buildings Without Bins Outside

The City of Harare has issued a stern warning to building and business premises owners: comply with anti-litter regulations or face closure. According to a public notice released on 28 November 2024, buildings without at least three bins outside their premises will be heavily fined and potentially shut down.

“This directive is with immediate effect,” the statement from Acting Town Clerk Engineer P.M. Moyo read.

“The City will be left with no option except to enforce the law for those who do not comply. Let’s keep our city clean.”

The order is based on Harare Statutory Instrument 158/86, an anti-litter by-law aimed at ensuring proper waste management across the city.

• Also Read: Mthuli Ncube Introduces Rental Income Tax – Here Is How It Will Impact Tenants and Landlords

Spokesperson: “Avoid Inconveniences”

City of Harare spokesperson Stanley Gama took to Twitter to further clarify the directive, urging compliance from business and building owners to avoid disruptions.

“Good afternoon, Harare business people and building owners,” Gama wrote. “Let’s comply with the by-law to avoid inconveniences. We must all have at least three bins at our premises, or you are heavily fined and the building will be closed. Let’s join hands in keeping our city clean.”

He assured the public that waste management logistics were in place.

“All buildings should have bins outside. The City of Harare will empty the bins. Everything is in place,” he added.

• Owning Two or More Dogs Could Land You in Prison: City of Harare Issues Stern Warning

Keeping Harare Clean

The directive is part of a broader effort to maintain cleanliness and order in the capital city.

Over the years, Harare has faced challenges with littering and waste disposal, prompting stricter enforcement of by-laws.

The City Council’s notice emphasised that the presence of bins would be non-negotiable.

“This notice is issued in accordance with the Harare Statutory Instrument 158/86 Anti-Litter By-Law,” it stated.

Businesses and property owners are expected to act swiftly to comply, as the city moves to uphold its cleanliness campaign.

With this move, authorities hope to restore the city’s image and reduce illegal dumping in public spaces.

The council’s decision aligns with its longstanding goal of improving waste management services and encouraging public responsibility.

“Let’s keep our city clean,” the notice concluded, reinforcing the administration’s call for a collaborative effort between residents and officials.