Zim GBC News | Gender and Community
BULAWAYO – A proposal by the Bulawayo City Council to significantly increase fines for littering has received broad support from residents and stakeholders, though many have cautioned that the suggested 1,000 percent hike requires careful implementation to avoid being overly punitive or fueling corruption.
The move comes as littering continues to be a growing problem across the City’s residential areas and central business district.
Current fines, ranging from $5 to $30, are no longer a deterrent, according to councillors who have urged a swift review of the penalties.
Stakeholders have largely endorsed the principle of steeper fines. Michael Ndiweni, Director of the Bulawayo Vendors and Traders Association, voiced strong support, stating,
“It’s a very good recommendation. Even the Kyoto Protocol says the polluter pays. It is your responsibility to keep the city clean. I fully support council because I think there are no effective or punitive measures for littering, including for companies.”
Echoing the need for action but questioning the scale, Winos Dube, Chairperson of the Bulawayo Residents Association (BURA), suggested a more moderate increase.
“For starters, we do not condone littering. However, increasing fines from $30 to $300 is too harsh. We understand the intention is to deter people, but what about someone who mistakenly litters? Will they be able to pay such an amount?” Dube said.
Residents also raised concerns about potential misconduct in enforcement. Chengeto Rwizi, a resident of Pelanda West, supported the hike but warned,
“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’ far less than the official fine. The proposal is noble—our city must regain its status—but enforcement must be fair.”
The council’s Health, Housing and Education Committee is now expected to consider this public feedback before making a final recommendation on the new penalty structure.
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