Tapiwa Chawagarira
THE Chiredzi Town Council has started converting its Khomanani community beerhall into strategic business unit to help generate income, but the move has sparked off a raging debate among residents.
Residents fear the loss of a vital social space and potential harm to community cohesion.
The beerhall, built nearly three decades ago, has long been a cherished landmark where residents gather to celebrate special occasions, socialise, and forge connections, albeit in need of modern renovations.
Documents obtained by this newspaper reveal that the local authority plans to divide the beerhall into two, with half remaining as a beerhall and the other half converted into vending stalls.
This proposal is part of its smart cities blueprint.
“This beerhall is the heart of our community. It is where we gather, celebrate, and support each other during tough times. We cannot let it go without a fight. Our voices have to be heard first through consultations,” said Susan Ncube, a local resident.
Ward 6 Councillor Costain Mombe and the Chiredzi Residents and Ratepayers Association’s (CHIRRA) Jonathan Shonhiwa have expressed strong opposition to the council’s decision, calling for further dialogue and transparency.
“We cannot allow the council to erase a beloved community landmark without proper consultation. This decision seems to prioritise short-term economic gain over the cultural and social fabric of our community,” said Shonhiwa.
The community has started a “Save Our Beerhall” campaign, with many calling for council to reconsider its decision. Residents have taken to social media and the streets to express their outrage.
A key factor driving the proposal is the beerhall’s lease agreement, which has been criticised for its unfavourable terms. The council has been leasing the beerhall for US$100 per month for a period spanning over 36 months, prompting concerns about the financial sustainability of the current arrangement.
The local authority joins Masvingo City Council which had agreed to lease a portion Chiwororo Beerhall for poultry products.
In an interview Town Council chairman, Jameson Charumbira, said the plan was not to completely convert the beerhall into vending stalls, but to create a dual-purpose space.
“The motion was not to change the beerhall totally, but to divide it into two. However, this was raised by our technocrats as part of our smart cities blueprint,” he said.