A recent report by NewsDay has revealed that several chairpersons of committees within the Harare City Council (HCC) lack essential qualifications and do not fully grasp the responsibilities of their positions. This information came to light during a commission of inquiry into the City of Harare’s operations, led by Retired Judge Justice Maphios Cheda.
The commission, established by President Emmerson Mnangagwa in May, aims to evaluate the council’s structure and operations since 2017. HCC’s various committees include those focused on business, environmental issues, information and publicity, auditing, educational health, housing and community services, and licensing.
For example, Blessing Duma, the chairperson of the audit committee and a councillor from Ward 29, acknowledged during questioning that he lacked the necessary qualifications for his role. Despite holding degrees in journalism and wildlife management, he admitted to overseeing the audit committee.
Justice Cheda challenged Duma regarding his suitability for the position, suggesting that he might be better qualified for other types of work, stating, “Don’t you think you are better off running after elephants? You have no qualifications in accounts.”
In his defense, Duma pointed out that many elected councillors do not possess the relevant qualifications for their roles, noting that individuals with minimal education can still be elected. He remarked, “Even someone with a Grade 1 qualification can become a councillor. If you review the CVs of councillors at the Town House, you would be shocked. We usually learn about their qualifications later on.”
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Commissioner Thabani Mpofu also criticized George Mujajati, who chairs the human c
apital resources committee, for lacking appropriate qualifications. Mujajati confessed to gaining experience while on the job, having no prior background in human resources.
The commission expressed astonishment that Lovemore Makuwerere, the chair of the business development committee, only holds an Ordinary Level qualification and was unable to provide any financial details during the inquiry.
Additionally, Cecelia Chimbiri, who leads the environmental management committee, appeared unaware of her committee’s role in regularizing stands and struggled to articulate the significance of wetlands, citing a lack of experience and confidence.
