Harare seeks levies to fund emergency services and street lights

Zim Now Writer

 The City of Harare has proposed a US$1 levy per household for emergency services and another US$1 for street lighting, aiming to address the city's deteriorating infrastructure and service delivery.

 According to Councillor Costa Mande, chair of the finance and development committee, the city currently struggles with a severe shortage of functional ambulances. "Out of a requirement of 32 ambulances, only four are operational," he said.

 The proposed levies are intended to generate additional revenue to fund essential services, including the procurement of new ambulances and the repair and maintenance of existing equipment. Additionally, the street lighting levy will be used to expand and improve the city's street lighting infrastructure.

 "The lack of resources, coupled with the low payment compliance rate from residents, has significantly hindered our ability to provide quality services," Mande explained.