By Johannes Mike Mupisa
Although it is the mandate of every local authority to provide refuse collection services to its ratepayers, the Mwenezi Rural District Council is carrying out this responsibility in commendable style. The council has introduced practical strategies aimed at enhancing refuse service delivery at its two biggest business centres.
The streets of Neshuro and Rutenga are kept visibly clean, with a dedicated team of cleaners working throughout the day to sweep and collect litter. This has significantly improved the general outlook of the two centres.
When asked whether council has developed strategies to generate revenue from waste management, Chief Executive Officer Albert Chivanga explained that the local authority is in the process of crafting an Integrated Solid Waste Management Plan in partnership with GIZ.
“Council is in the process of developing an integrated solid waste management plan with assistance from GIZ. Economical and strategic ways of generating revenue from solid waste are being developed in the Integrated Solid Waste Management Plan,” said Chivanga.
However, the CEO lamented the challenges affecting the full execution of council’s mandate, particularly the failure by some ratepayers to settle their rates. He noted that this has strained the council’s financial capacity.
“Every council activity requires operational costs. Refuse collection, road maintenance and other essential services depend on revenue inflows. There is therefore a need to bridge this financial gap,” he emphasised.
The refuse collection service has also been hampered by some residents who continue to litter indiscriminately, even in areas where public bins have been provided. One resident, speaking on condition of anonymity, remarked in frustration:
“Dai kanzuru yagadzirisa road chero mutownship nezvimwe, marara ehe machena ko road?”
The comment reflects a broader concern linking service delivery and rate payments. While council is making visible efforts in maintaining cleanliness, sustainable service provision ultimately depends on improved revenue collection and responsible behaviour from residents.
Indeed, the situation in Mwenezi highlights a common challenge faced by many local authorities — balancing service delivery expectations with limited financial resources due to non-payment of rates.
