Zimbabwe: Harare Council Set to Evict Tenants Over Unpaid Rent and Leases

The City of Harare is starting a debt recovery operation. This targets residents, businesses, and institutions in council-owned properties. Many have not met their financial obligations.

Acting Harare Town Clerk Phakame Mabhena Moyo announced the operation. It will begin on Monday, May 19, 2025. The process may include evicting those who owe money.

Moyo explained that this includes tenants in council housing and lessees of council land. It also affects users of guarded car parks and commercial leaseholders. Schools and other entities occupying council assets are included as well.

The recovery process will happen in stages. First, formal eviction notices will be issued. Next, court summons will be served, followed by court-ordered ejectments.

Moyo stated that this decision aims to improve service delivery and sustainability. The City wants to recover all outstanding debts to ensure essential services continue.

The municipality urges all debtors to settle their balances quickly. This can help them avoid legal consequences like eviction. Moyo appreciates cooperation from residents as it supports the City's service capacity.

While the total amount owed has not been disclosed, it is believed to be millions of dollars.