The Harare City Council (HCC) has responded to allegations that it spent over $11.2 million on workshops in the first half of 2024. According to the council’s records, the actual amount spent was significantly lower, totaling $2.1 million. These figures were presented by Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume during a full council meeting, countering claims made by the incarcerated Town Clerk, Hosiah Chisango, who alleged that the council’s spending had reached $11.2 million.
Mayor Mafume explained that the council’s expenditure was primarily on internal staff training and workshops necessary for the city’s operations. “Contrary to what is appearing in newspapers, our records show that we spent $2.1 million, not $11.2 million,” Mafume stated. He emphasized that these expenses were crucial for the induction of new councilors and ongoing training programs mandated after elections. With the recent increase to 59 councilors and 14 additional seats through proportional representation, the need for such workshops has grown.
Breakdown of the Financial Records
The financial report, as detailed by Mayor Mafume, indicated that the expenditures covered a range of activities. These included induction programs, local and international trips, and staff workshops, all of which were documented and converted to U.S. dollars using the exchange rate at the time. The council’s finance department prepared the report and presented it under oath, confirming the $2.1 million figure.
Mafume also highlighted that much of the costs were not directly related to councilors. “Councilors receive a small allowance. In fact, the drivers taking us to these workshops earn more than we do,” he clarified. He called for a better understanding of the council’s financial obligations and stressed that most of the spending was on essential services and staff-related programs rather than frivolous expenditures.
Calls for Transparency and Accountability
Addressing concerns about the council’s transparency, Mayor Mafume criticized fellow councilors for not being fully informed about council activities and financial dealings. “You people must know your organization from the top of your heads,” Mafume urged, highlighting the importance of councilors being well-versed in the council’s operations to avoid misinformation and maintain public trust.
He also reassured the public that the council does not have the luxury of wasting resources on unnecessary expenses. “We don’t even have the money to afford basic services, let alone spend recklessly on workshops,” Mafume asserted. He called for stakeholders to understand the realities of managing city finances under challenging economic conditions and to refrain from spreading unverified information.
The HCC remains committed to transparency and prudent financial management, especially amid economic constraints. Despite the controversy, the council aims to continue providing essential services to Harare residents while ensuring that expenditures are kept under control and clearly communicated to the public.
Source: New ZimbabweÂ
