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Residents query motives behind delimitation exercise
Combined Harare Residents Association (CHRA)
Extracted from The Resident, Issue 39
August 12, 2004

The proposed delimitation of wards in Harare, Chitungwiza, Ruwa and Epworth has angered many residents.

The Ministry of Local Government, Public Works and National Housing proposed the alteration of ward boundaries by including areas under rural districts into urban centres. Parts of Mazowe, Zvimba, Goromonzi and Manyame will be incorporated into Harare, Ruwa, Epworth and Chitungwiza Municipalities.

"This is a political move that will bring more chaos to Harare than ever before" states one resident. "We must know what the Ministry is up to. The elections are just round the corner so something is definately up!"

A resident in ward 9 had this to say: "The Ministry of Local Government, Public Works and National Housing's proposal seems to be totally unrealistic since the Harare City Council is uncapable (sic) of taking care of the city as it stands at present."

Residents know the problems that council is facing. Another resident from Mabelreign put the matter into perspective when she stated that: I can feel my mind blowing away when I think of the water leaks which spring almost daily onto our roads. Should I put together a formal proposal to CHRA for the underground water pipes to be replaced - ongoing until they are all done?

This has, I understand, been put off for many many years. A municipal expert from Britain informed us that replacing leaking pipe system saves more water than a fancy new dam could provide. Actually I once asked dear young Jameson (CHRA) what was the point in new developments for Harare when this was happening. He replied that 'It can make more money', which I thought missed the point entirely.

"Our late city fathers must be spinning in their graves at this outrageous irresponsibility. How can professional city planners even consider More consumers, when all the services are not enough for the present consumers????????????"

This question should be posed to the Ministry of Local Government, Public Works and National Housing whose suggestion it is that the ward boundaries be extended.

Residents are urged to keep the objections rolling in. Residents should clearly state in their objections the reasons why they are objecting to the proposed alterations. The ministry should explain the following:

1. The Financial and Administrative implications of this move.
2. The Impact that the change will have on local government affairs in Harare. The Ministry proposed to create 44 out of 45 wards. This means that two wards will be merged into one. What will happen to the District officials in the two wards, and how will the change affect their reporting structure?
3. What measures have been put in place to ensure that wards that do not have a district office, like Ward 6 in the Avenues area will not be further marginalized due to the increased load on the local authority?

We urge residents to come forward and express themselves.

Visit the CHRA fact sheet

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