Staff Reporter
GWERU – The Gweru City Council 2025 proposed budget of US$50.4 million has been approved.
In his February address to the media, Gweru Mayor Martin Chivhoko said the engine of the local authority is fueled by rates and therefore ratepayers must pay bills promptly, as this will enable the city fathers to deliver essential services and drive development.
Debtors list stood at US$17,33 million in December 2024 and has increased to US$18,88 million as of January 31, 2025.
Mayor Chivhoko said the approval came with a condition that council rigorously enforce debt collection policy to improve collection efficiency in 2025.
“I therefore urge all debtors to clear their debts to avoid debt collection blitz. I also urge our business community to pay their shop licenses to avoid inconveniences,” he said.
The Mayor said the majority of the budget will be allocated towards Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) activities, which are critical to the health and well-being of residents.
“Additionally, we will be investing in capital projects, with a major focus on addressing the poor state of our city’s roads,” he said.
Mayor Chivhoko said they were working to ensure that they meet the 2024 audit statutory deadlines and urgently fill key vacant posts.
The local authority has already conducted interviews for the Town Clerk and the director of housing and community services, and now awaits interviews for the chamber secretary’s post.
Council is currently operating with acting Town Clerk Livingstone Churu, acting housing director Unity Jaji and acting chamber secretary Tapiwa Marerwa.
