Harare city officials started tough action against tenants who refuse to pay rent and service fees. The campaign targets people who owe more than ZiG500 million across Dzivarasekwa and the business district. Water supplies will be cut off first before health inspectors close buildings under public safety rules. City spokesperson Stanley Gama said properties without water cannot operate legally under health laws. Officials blame unpaid bills for broken roads, water shortages and waste collection problems.
Small business owners and informal traders face sudden closures despite not owing money directly to the council. Many tenants rent spaces from other people who actually owe the debt to city authorities. The crackdown affects tuck shops and market stalls that depend on council properties for daily operations. Revenue losses from inflation and currency changes have made the debt problem much worse. Council workers say collecting these debts remains essential for fixing basic services across the capital city.
Small business owners and informal traders face sudden closures despite not owing money directly to the council. Many tenants rent spaces from other people who actually owe the debt to city authorities. The crackdown affects tuck shops and market stalls that depend on council properties for daily operations. Revenue losses from inflation and currency changes have made the debt problem much worse. Council workers say collecting these debts remains essential for fixing basic services across the capital city.
