Gweru City Council will from today — Munhumutapa Day — begin closing down all unlicensed businesses, unapproved lodges, backyard tuckshops, vending sites, shops and unauthorised schools in a major drive to bring order to the city.
A public notice signed by Acting Town Clerk Mr. L. Churu warns that only businesses which are properly licensed and compliant will be spared.
“The crackdown also comes against the backdrop of mounting arrears. According to council records, as of 31 January 2025 Gweru was owed US $18.88 million by ratepayers, including businesses, schools and other entities.
A source in the local authority said although enforcing payments is critical, Gweru’s crackdown is necessary to restore safety, dignity and order — especially in face of chaotic growth in urban “malls,” shops, backyard schools and substandard buildings that have in many places become the norm.
The source said there will be an outcry from those affected and potential politicisation of the move, but it is important to enforce by-laws for the greater good.
“These unregulated operations undermine city planning, safety, and appearance. They have been allowed to become “normal” and that culture must be stamped out. Without rules and regulations, it is impossible to develop modern cities,” said the source.
The source said Gweru which has an estimated population of around 150 000 should be efficiently managed so that businesses and residents can get proper services.
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The move comes as part of a growing national enforcement push. In Harare, Operation CBD Order Restoration has seen 463 businesses shut in the Central Business District for regulatory breaches. Of these:
413 were operating without valid licences
65 buildings lacked approved building plans
141 buildings had arrears on water bills
Fire safety breaches: at least 50 buildings were operating with expired fire extinguishers; meanwhile, 783 buildings reportedly hold valid fire certifications.
Meanwhile, the Government has set a deadline for unregistered private schools to regularise by 31 December 2025, after which any still non-compliant will be shut down from January 2026.
Education Minister Torerayi Moyo emphasised that the grace period is intended to protect learners during exam periods but added that illegal schools must be brought into the formal system.
This initiative also aligns with national reforms: recent statements from government including from Finance Minister Prof. Mthuli Ncube promise improvements in the ease of doing business.
Local authorities have also been directed to slash fees including licensing, parking and clamping charges to encourage compliance.
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