By Takudzwa Changadeya
Harare – Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume has called for collective action and public participation to address deteriorating service delivery, as Central Business District (CBD) property owners threaten legal action over unresolved grievances.
Property owners have issued a 14-day ultimatum to Mafume and the City of Harare, demanding immediate attention to concerns such as excessive rates, inflated water bills, traffic congestion, rising crime, and declining property values.
Failure to act, they warned, will result in legal proceedings.
Speaking in an exclusive interview, Mafume urged residents and stakeholders to engage with the city’s ongoing budget process to ensure their voices are heard.
“As we are currently working on the budget, we invite all concerned parties to come forward, engage in the decision-making process, and formally present their concerns.
“We acknowledge their grievances and encourage active participation in addressing these issues,” he said.
Mafume’s plea follows a petition from prominent CBD property owners, including firms like Mohammed Mussa, Bhika Brothers, Tselentis, and Dell Investments.
The petition accuses Harare City Council (HCC), of ignoring long-standing issues that have severely impacted businesses.
In their formal communication to city officials, the property owners expressed frustration over inaction despite prior meetings with council representatives.
The petition further alleges that the council has been inflating property valuations to boost revenue, even as the CBD continues to decline.
“The asset value of most of the properties has decreased substantially, and the resale/market value has dropped accordingly.
“Rental income is minimal, and the viability of properties is marginal.
Accordingly, the City of Harare should not be increasing their valuations to maximise income,” they wrote.
The group further cautioned that these practices would negatively impact year-end accounts, emphasizing that they would pursue legal recourse if the issues are not resolved within two weeks.
