News / National
Harare hikes public toilet fees by 100%
3 hrs ago | Views
The City of Harare is facing a mounting public outcry after it controversially doubled the fee for accessing public toilets from US$0.50 to US$1.00 (approx. R18.50), drawing sharp condemnation from residents, health advocates, and civil society organisations who describe the decision as "anti-poor" and "gender-blind."
The Combined Harare Residents Association (CHRA) led the backlash, issuing a scathing statement on Tuesday condemning the unilateral fee hike, which they say disproportionately affects women and girls, who often require more frequent access to toilets due to menstruation, pregnancy, and caregiving duties.
"Alert! The unilateral gender-blind decisions made by Harare City Council torment women. The increase of pay toilet user fees from US$0.50 to US$1.00 has seen the emergence of long queues at 'free' women's public toilets in the CBD," CHRA said in a statement.
Reuben Akili, CHRA's director, warned that the issue extends beyond affordability, calling it a matter of dignity and human rights.
"This move is anti-poor and out of touch with the realities of daily life for many Harareans. Access to clean, safe, and affordable public toilets is not a luxury—it is a necessity," said Akili.
Since the new fees were implemented, long queues have been reported at the few remaining free public toilets in the city centre. Some women are reportedly being forced to wait for hours or use unsafe alternatives due to the cost barrier.
Adding to the controversy are disturbing reports of corruption among toilet attendants. CHRA alleges that some workers are locking the facilities and demanding bribes from desperate users.
"Public toilet cleaners are reportedly closing facilities as a strategy to solicit for bribes. This is deeply disturbing and unethical, especially given that sanitation is a basic human right," the association noted.
Health professionals have joined the chorus of concern, warning that restricted access to sanitation could trigger a public health crisis, particularly in densely populated urban areas. The fear is that people may start relieving themselves in alleys or open spaces, increasing the risk of diarrhoeal diseases and other infections.
So far, the Harare City Council has not responded to the backlash, and its silence is fuelling further anger among residents.
Local NGOs and human rights groups are urging the council to immediately reverse the fee increase and open dialogue with affected communities.
"The city must realise that failing to provide affordable and accessible sanitation is a ticking health time bomb," said one NGO representative who requested anonymity.
As the pressure mounts, many Harare residents are demanding accountability and the prioritisation of public welfare over municipal revenue generation.
The Combined Harare Residents Association (CHRA) led the backlash, issuing a scathing statement on Tuesday condemning the unilateral fee hike, which they say disproportionately affects women and girls, who often require more frequent access to toilets due to menstruation, pregnancy, and caregiving duties.
"Alert! The unilateral gender-blind decisions made by Harare City Council torment women. The increase of pay toilet user fees from US$0.50 to US$1.00 has seen the emergence of long queues at 'free' women's public toilets in the CBD," CHRA said in a statement.
Reuben Akili, CHRA's director, warned that the issue extends beyond affordability, calling it a matter of dignity and human rights.
"This move is anti-poor and out of touch with the realities of daily life for many Harareans. Access to clean, safe, and affordable public toilets is not a luxury—it is a necessity," said Akili.
Since the new fees were implemented, long queues have been reported at the few remaining free public toilets in the city centre. Some women are reportedly being forced to wait for hours or use unsafe alternatives due to the cost barrier.
Adding to the controversy are disturbing reports of corruption among toilet attendants. CHRA alleges that some workers are locking the facilities and demanding bribes from desperate users.
"Public toilet cleaners are reportedly closing facilities as a strategy to solicit for bribes. This is deeply disturbing and unethical, especially given that sanitation is a basic human right," the association noted.
Health professionals have joined the chorus of concern, warning that restricted access to sanitation could trigger a public health crisis, particularly in densely populated urban areas. The fear is that people may start relieving themselves in alleys or open spaces, increasing the risk of diarrhoeal diseases and other infections.
So far, the Harare City Council has not responded to the backlash, and its silence is fuelling further anger among residents.
Local NGOs and human rights groups are urging the council to immediately reverse the fee increase and open dialogue with affected communities.
"The city must realise that failing to provide affordable and accessible sanitation is a ticking health time bomb," said one NGO representative who requested anonymity.
As the pressure mounts, many Harare residents are demanding accountability and the prioritisation of public welfare over municipal revenue generation.
Source - online
