As part of the ongoing National Clean-Up Campaign initiated by the Government of Zimbabwe, the Municipality of Chitungwiza recently led a successful clean-up exercise that brought together a wide range of partners from the public sector, private sector and civil society. The campaign focused on promoting environmental cleanliness, proper waste disposal and public health awareness as the rainy season draws near. The clean-up covered key areas of Chitungwiza that are prone to illegal dumping and littering, with teams working collectively to remove waste and restore public spaces.
Joining the clean-up as a core partner, the Upper Manyame Sub-Catchment Council (UMSCC) made a significant contribution through the donation of waste bins to the local authority and community. The bin handover was led by Miss Tendai Chipere, who underscored the importance of responsible waste management and the need for practical solutions in maintaining clean environments. In her remarks, she stressed that waste bins should not be viewed as symbolic, but rather as essential tools in helping communities dispose of litter correctly and avoid clogging stormwater drains. She warned that poor waste disposal habits directly contribute to flooding and the spread of waterborne diseases during the rainy season issues that can be prevented with proper planning and community cooperation.
The donated bins will be placed at strategic locations around Chitungwiza to increase accessibility and encourage regular use. This practical intervention complements awareness campaigns and community mobilisation efforts already underway. The initiative also aligns with broader national goals under Vision 2030, particularly in strengthening environmental governance, improving urban sanitation and encouraging public participation in local development. UMSCC’s participation in this campaign reflects the critical role water catchment councils play in not just protecting water bodies, but also in ensuring that solid waste does not compromise stormwater systems, wetlands, or downstream ecosystems.
The event saw participation from several high-level partners, including the Ministries of Women Affairs, Community, Small & Medium Enterprises Development, Primary & Secondary Education and Youth Empowerment, Development & Vocational Training, as well as the Zimbabwe Republic Police. Key private sector partners such as Econet, OK Zimbabwe, NetOne, FBC, POSB and Delta Chibuku Breweries supported the event, along with civic groups and institutions like EMA, Herentals College, Nyatsime College, Green Africa Network, and Teen Rescue Mission. Youth voices were also well represented through junior councillors and junior parliamentarians. The Municipality of Chitungwiza expressed its appreciation to all stakeholders and reiterated its commitment to working with partners to maintain a clean, green, and healthy city. The success of this campaign is a reminder that long-term change begins with collective action, and when communities are equipped with both resources and knowledge, lasting impact is possible.
As Upper Manyame Sub-Catchment Council, we were glad to be part of this clean-up effort alongside so many partners. By donating these bins, we were helping to stop waste from blocking drains and harming our water sources. This work shows how, by coming together and taking simple steps, we can make a real difference in keeping Chitungwiza clean and safe. We believe that with everyone’s cooperation, the community can stay healthier and the environment better protected.