Harare City Shuts Down 463 Non-Compliant Businesses in Major CBD Cleanup

Harare City shuts down 463 non-compliant businesses in a major CBD cleanup. The cleanup operation started three weeks ago, with the council making checks on building structures, licenses, and other relevant documents.

Harare’s municipal government has temporarily closed 463 commercial establishments in the city centre during a sweeping two-week compliance operation. The crackdown, part of the “CBD Order Restoration Initiative,” primarily targets unlicensed enterprises, structural violations, and outstanding municipal debts.

Violations Identified In Most Non-Compliant Businesses

Municipal records indicate that 413 businesses were operating without valid licenses, representing the majority of closures. Additional violations included 141 properties with delinquent water accounts.

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Sixty-five of the structures lacked approved architectural plans, while 50 buildings had expired fire safety equipment.

Lastly, 111 of the businesses were improperly subdivided commercial spaces, which have been partitioned to make more illegal shops.

City Of Harare Applauds Buildings Voluntarily Complying

Despite the closures, city officials report that 783 buildings currently meet fire safety standards with proper certification. The municipality continues to encourage voluntary compliance, urging business owners to regularise their operations promptly.

“The City of Harare maintains its commitment to urban standards and public safety. We strongly advise all commercial operators and property owners to address any compliance issues without delay,” stated a municipal spokesperson.

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The enforcement campaign focuses on multiple regulatory areas, including proper business licensing and documentation, structural integrity and approved building modifications, current fire prevention systems and settlement of municipal service arrears.

Authorities emphasise that the operation aims to improve safety standards and ensure fair business practices throughout Zimbabwe’s capital city. Regular compliance checks are expected to continue in the coming weeks as part of Harare’s urban renewal strategy.