In a bid to address the mounting debt crisis, the Harare City Council (HCC) has taken a firm stance by commencing the issuance of summons to residents, organizations, and companies who have fallen behind on their rate payments. The move comes as the HCC grapples with a staggering amount of outstanding dues, estimated at a staggering $1.5 trillion (ZWL) as of last month.
With the recent adoption of the Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG) as the country's new currency, the HCC has intensified its efforts to reclaim unpaid rates, emphasizing the importance of sustained revenue generation for the provision of essential services and the overall well-being of the city.
According to Mr. Stanley Gama, the Head of Corporate Communications at the HCC, the council has embarked on the process of issuing summons to defaulting ratepayers. In a statement to The Sunday Mail Online, he urged ratepayers to promptly settle their outstanding debts to avoid the inconvenience and potential legal consequences associated with being taken to court.
The summons process serves as a clear warning to residents, organizations, and companies who have neglected their responsibility to fulfill their financial obligations to the city. By initiating legal action, the HCC aims to ensure that all ratepayers uphold their civic duty and contribute to the sustainable development and maintenance of essential infrastructure and services within Harare.
By enforcing the payment of outstanding rates, the council seeks to enhance its revenue base, which is crucial for investing in critical areas such as waste management, road maintenance, water and sanitation, and other essential services.
The City of Harare has started issuing summons to residents, organisations and companies who have defaulted on paying rates,” he said. “We, therefore, urge ratepayers to settle their debts before going through the inconvenience of being taken to court.”
Ratepayers are urged to take this opportunity to settle their debts promptly, thus avoiding the potential legal ramifications that may arise from continued non-payment. The HCC's summons process serves as a reminder of the shared responsibility between the council and the residents, organizations, and companies within Harare to work together towards the sustainable development and growth of the city.
