Harare, (New Ziana) – The Harare City Council has announced discounts of up to 20 percent for residents and other ratepayers who settle their outstanding bills between 19 January and 15 February.

The initiative is part of efforts to align with the Minimum Service Delivery Standards launched by President Emmerson Mnangagwa in June 2024, which aims to improve municipal performance in housing, water supply, sanitation, roads, waste management, governance, environment, and public health.

Mayor Jacob Mafume said the discounts are designed to incentivize debtors to clear arrears and strengthen revenue collection, which is critical for service delivery.
“A minimum collection rate of 80 percent is set for 2026, with progression to reach 100 percent thereafter. The discounts are part of measures aimed at improving revenue collection, which is the backbone of effective service delivery,” Mafume said.

Residents who pay in foreign currency will receive additional benefits, while fully paid-up customers will earn loyalty points and account credits.

According to Mafume, residents account for 80 percent of the ZWG8.4 billion owed to the city, with government departments, agencies, and businesses making up the remainder.

The mounting debt has severely constrained the council’s operations, with Harare’s service delivery index averaging just 52 percent in the last quarter of 2025—well below acceptable standards for a capital city.

Mafume emphasized that improved collections are essential to restoring reliable services and ensuring the city meets its obligations under the national service delivery framework.

New Ziana