Gweru introduces US$30 spot fine for littering

The Gweru City Council has introduced a US$30 spot fine for public littering as authorities intensify efforts to restore cleanliness and improve public health across the city.

The measure follows a waste management sensitisation meeting that brought together local government officials, environmental agencies, law enforcement, and civic society stakeholders to address growing challenges linked to improper waste disposal.

Gweru Mayor Councillor Martin Chivhoko said maintaining a clean environment requires collective responsibility from residents, businesses, and visitors, warning that poor waste disposal poses serious health risks.

"When plastic bags choke our drains and illegal dumpsites become breeding grounds for rats and mosquitoes, we are not just dealing with an eyesore, we are exposing ourselves to diseases such as cholera, typhoid, dysentery and malaria," he said.

He added that the city has "declared war on litterbugs" and will intensify enforcement against individuals and companies dumping waste at illegal sites.

Town Clerk Livingstone Churu said the council is strengthening its waste management capacity by expanding its refuse collection fleet with six compactors, 20 skip bins, and two tractor-drawn skip trailers.

He said the initiative aligns with broader national environmental sustainability goals aimed at reducing pollution and promoting responsible waste disposal.

Director of Health Services Sam Sekenhamo said the city is implementing an Integrated Solid Waste Management Plan (2026–2030), which aims to transition Gweru from a traditional collect-and-dispose system to a circular economy model.

The plan seeks to reduce waste sent to dumpsites from nearly 100 percent to 40 percent through recycling, reuse, and waste prevention strategies.

"With the US$30 fine now active, our message is clear: keep Gweru clean, or pay the price," he said.

Gweru Residents and Ratepayers Association executive director Cornelius Selipiwe said both the council and residents must play their part, noting that irregular refuse collection often contributes to illegal dumping.

Environmental Management Agency (EMA) Gweru district environment officer Timothy Nyoka said enforcement will be strengthened, warning that offenders will be fined.

Midlands provincial police spokesperson Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko also confirmed that police will support enforcement efforts where environmental laws are violated.