Bulawayo councillors have accused waste pickers of littering residential areas as they go about their duties putting residents’ health at risk.
According to the latest council minutes, the councillors complained that some Community Groups involved in collecting materials for recycling were leaving dumpsites in a filthy state.
The councillors also noted that some of the refuse collected by community sweepers would go for longer periods without being collected by the city council.
“Councillor Febby Msipa was not happy about the conduct of some of the members of the Community Groups which were involved in collecting materials for recycling. This was not done properly and most of the areas were left littered after these activities,” the minutes read.
“Councillor Sikhululekile Moyo noted the need to increase Community Sweepers in Ward 17 to cover the Peri-Urban Village of St Peters, Methodist and Robert Sinyoka. Residents in these Peri-urban areas generated a lot of refuse which was not being collected. Alderman Monica Lubimbi noted the improved street cleaning service delivery in residential areas. Her concern was on residents who scavenged for recyclable materials. These residents left most of the areas littered after emptying refuse bags.”
Chairperson of the health Committee Councillor Sinikiwe Mutanda was of the view that community sweepers should be engaged regarding the collection of materials for recycling.
“This should be done in an orderly manner that would leave the City clean at all times. Illegal dumps were resurfacing again. There was need to review fines upward. She also inquired if Council would take back full refuse collection service delivery from Community Trucker,” the minutes read.
The Director of Health Services, Dr Edwin Sibanda explained that efforts were being made to contain recyclable material scavengers.
“In low density areas covered by the Council Refuse Compactors, monitoring would be done accordingly. Some of the areas in Wards 2, 7 and 8 would soon be having Community Truckers to collect refuse. Consideration to engage EMA in fining illegal dumpers had started. EMA had a higher fine structure.”
