By Admore Mbonda in Kariba
Tensions are boiling over as residents fiercely oppose Kariba Municipality‘s proposed 2025 budget, accusing it of imposing punitive measures on struggling families.
At the heart of the uproar are two contentious provisions: a fixed water charge of $4 for households and a 5% penalty on overdue payments, sparking widespread anger and calls for immediate reconsideration.
The discontent reached its peak when local residents’ associations staged a boycott of a special municipal meeting meant to discuss the budget. Despite the attendance of finance committee chairperson Councilor George Masendu and other council members, the absence of key community representatives left the proceedings in disarray, amplifying public frustrations.
The Budget Battle
Residents argue the proposed $4 flat water fee disregards their economic hardships, while the 5% fine on debtors is seen as an unmanageable burden for those already struggling to stay afloat. “This budget punishes the vulnerable,” said Samson Coffee of the Kariba Urban Residents Association (KURA). “The council must prioritize community welfare and engage us in crafting solutions that work for everyone.”
Masendu, defending the budget, insisted the measures were essential to sustain municipal services amid rising costs. “These decisions are necessary to maintain infrastructure and ensure service delivery,” he stated. However, residents remain unconvinced, accusing the council of ignoring their lived realities.
Objections Ignored?
The proposals, advertised in October 2024, drew nine formal objections, primarily targeting the fixed water charge and a previously proposed 6% interest on overdue accounts. While the council made minor adjustments—reducing the water charge for residents to $4 and commercial users to $8, and lowering the interest rate to 5%—the concessions have done little to pacify the community.
The council maintains that the fees, particularly the water charge, are earmarked exclusively for repairing and maintaining water infrastructure. Yet, many residents remain skeptical, fearing the measures will exacerbate economic hardships in an already struggling town.
The Way Forward
As the clock ticks toward the January 1, 2025 implementation date, the standoff highlights the broader challenge of balancing municipal financial sustainability with the needs of a community in crisis. While Masendu insists the proposals comply with the Urban Councils Act, residents are demanding more inclusive dialogue and a revised budget that reflects their realities.
Kariba’s budget battle is far from over, as calls grow louder for a united approach that bridges the gap between municipal needs and community survival.
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