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Walter Mswazie Masvingo Correspondent
Residents here have criticised council for failing to decommission a condemned dump site in Runyararo West and start using a new site, already identified. The dump site, situated near houses, was condemned by the council itself since smoke from burning rubbish, including tyres, was finding its way into houses. The stench around nearby houses is intolerable, and the site is potentially a health hazard.

Masvingo United Residents and Ratepayers Alliance (MURRA) spokesperson Mr Godfrey Mutimba accused council of paying lip service to critical issues that are affecting the lives of residents.

“It is surprising that council is reluctant to address such critical issues. The dump site was condemned a long time ago, but it is taking ages for council to decommission it. Yet it makes life unbearable for residents,” said Mr Mutimba.

“Council should ensure that resolutions made during full council meetings are implemented. We were told that a new site had been identified but nothing has been done ever since,” he said.

Deputy Mayor Councillor Wellington Mahwende said council was seized with the matter and assured residents that the municipality will have a new dump site soon.
“We have sought the assistance of Minister of State for Masvingo Provincial Affairs Ezra Chadzamira over this issue,” he said.
“We were then offered another space outside the city and we hope very soon the setting up of a new dump site will be done.

“We are however sorry for the delay but that is the issue which always dominates our meetings. A solution is in the pipeline as we appreciate challenges caused by the existing dump site,” said Clr Mahwende.