Blessing Nduku

Gweru Mayor Councilor Chivhoko has urged residents to take greater responsibility for keeping the city clean. He reassured the community that the local authority is making progress in road rehabilitation, sewer management, and other service delivery programs.

The Mayor emphasized that service delivery remains central to the Council’s mandate, highlighting that providing clean water, functioning sewer systems, and well-maintained roads should be top priorities.

“At the heart of everything we do lies service delivery. This is the mandate you have given us, and it is one we must fulfill,” the Mayor stated.

He called on residents, businesses, and other stakeholders to collaborate with the Council in maintaining a clean and healthy environment, noting that cleanliness is directly linked to public health, investment, and the overall dignity of the city.

“Let us keep our city clean at all costs. Cleanliness is not merely about aesthetics; it is about health, dignity, and pride,” he said.

The Mayor advised residents to avoid littering, utilize designated dumping sites, and revive community clean-up programs in their neighborhoods.

“Gweru is our home. Let us treat it with the love and respect it deserves,” he urged.

On road rehabilitation, the Mayor said work is progressing on the overlay of 8th Street, calling the project a significant milestone in the city’s ongoing road development efforts.

He explained that improving 8th Street is expected to enhance traffic flow within the Central Business District, support business activity, and improve the appearance of the city center.

“The overlay of 8th Street will not only improve the driving experience in our Central Business District but will also boost business activity and restore the dignity of our city center,” the Mayor said.
He acknowledged that road works might temporarily disrupt traffic, leading to diversions and delays.

He asked motorists and residents to cooperate with the engineers handling the project. “I appeal for your patience and cooperation with our engineers during this period. This is proof that, despite resource constraints, we are making steady progress,” he added.

The Mayor said more roads would be included in the rehabilitation program, with projects prioritized based on need and available resources.

Sewer blockages were highlighted as a major concern, with the Mayor warning that overflowing sewage poses serious environmental and public health risks.
He urged residents to report any blocked or overflowing sewer lines immediately, rather than waiting for the situation to worsen.
“Do not wait. If you see a manhole overflowing or smell sewage in your area, report it to the Council without delay,” he instructed.

He also urged residents to avoid disposing of inappropriate materials in the sewer system, identifying nappies, plastics, sanitary items, cooking oil, and debris as contributors to blockages.
“Prevention is cheaper and faster than repair. Let us protect our health and our environment together,” he stated.

He further encouraged households to educate children and domestic workers about proper waste disposal and to cooperate with Council teams during sewer maintenance work.