A Commission of Inquiry has uncovered the disappearance of US$4.5 million allocated to Harare Quarry, raising concerns about widespread corruption within Zimbabwe's capital city administration. The investigation, led by retired Justice Maphios Cheda, revealed that funds disbursed in 2018 for operational revival vanished without documentation.
Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume testified before the commission on Thursday, stating plainly that theft occurred at the municipal subsidiary. When Justice Cheda pressed for details about the perpetrators and subsequent actions, Mafume indicated the quarry's former management team bore responsibility. He noted that law enforcement became involved prior to the election of current council members in 2018.
The quarry, established as a revenue-generating entity for Harare, has transformed into what investigators describe as a center of corruption. Officials allegedly exploited the facility for personal gain. Despite arrangements with private operators, the quarry failed to generate expected returns for the City Council, further straining public finances.
Mayor Mafume acknowledged the financial strain caused by the quarry's repeated need for council assistance. During his testimony, he expressed strong concerns about the missing millions, citing ongoing conflicts with previous management. Mafume advocated for decisive action, including potential liquidation of the facility. Recent weeks have required the council to address outstanding debts incurred by the quarry.
Warren Chiwawa, the HCC chamber secretary, confirmed that officials reported the matter to the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission. Chiwawa testified about discussions with the Business Development Manager, who verified the submission of formal complaints following committee deliberations.
The investigation has exposed additional challenges within the council, including allegations against Mayor Mafume regarding questionable transactions. Several high-ranking council officials face suspension amid corruption accusations. The missing millions have highlighted fundamental issues in Harare's governance, emphasizing the critical need for enhanced oversight and responsible management of public resources.
Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume testified before the commission on Thursday, stating plainly that theft occurred at the municipal subsidiary. When Justice Cheda pressed for details about the perpetrators and subsequent actions, Mafume indicated the quarry's former management team bore responsibility. He noted that law enforcement became involved prior to the election of current council members in 2018.
The quarry, established as a revenue-generating entity for Harare, has transformed into what investigators describe as a center of corruption. Officials allegedly exploited the facility for personal gain. Despite arrangements with private operators, the quarry failed to generate expected returns for the City Council, further straining public finances.
Mayor Mafume acknowledged the financial strain caused by the quarry's repeated need for council assistance. During his testimony, he expressed strong concerns about the missing millions, citing ongoing conflicts with previous management. Mafume advocated for decisive action, including potential liquidation of the facility. Recent weeks have required the council to address outstanding debts incurred by the quarry.
Warren Chiwawa, the HCC chamber secretary, confirmed that officials reported the matter to the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission. Chiwawa testified about discussions with the Business Development Manager, who verified the submission of formal complaints following committee deliberations.
The investigation has exposed additional challenges within the council, including allegations against Mayor Mafume regarding questionable transactions. Several high-ranking council officials face suspension amid corruption accusations. The missing millions have highlighted fundamental issues in Harare's governance, emphasizing the critical need for enhanced oversight and responsible management of public resources.
