Article: Strategic Milestone: City of Harare Secures US$690 Million Budget Approval for 2026

The City of Harare has reached a definitive turning point in its administrative and developmental trajectory following the formal approval of its US$690 million budget for the 2026 fiscal year. Sanctioned by the Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Daniel Garwe, the budget serves as the primary engine for the city's ambitious recovery and growth agenda.

In a statement released by the acting Town Clerk, Engineer Phakamile Mabhena Moyo, it was noted that the approval was processed under Section 47 (1) of the Public Finance Management Act (Chapter 22:19). This legislative alignment ensures that the city's spending power is backed by rigorous financial oversight, providing a structured pathway for the municipality to navigate the upcoming year.

A Framework for Progress

The approval is more than a mere administrative formality; it represents a comprehensive blueprint for urban renewal. "This approval marks a critical step forward in our commitment to service delivery and financial responsibility," the statement reads. "The approval of this budget provides the legal and financial framework for the city to execute its planned projects for the 2026 fiscal year."

By securing this funding, the City of Harare is now positioned to move from the planning phase to the execution phase. The US$690 million envelope is designed to address years of infrastructure deficit while stabilizing the city's volatile balance sheet.

Prioritizing Essential Services

The city council has identified several "high-impact" areas where resources will be immediately deployed. Chief among these is water provision. For many residents, consistent access to clean water has been a significant challenge. The 2026 budget allocates substantial funds toward treatment chemicals, the repair of aging pipe networks, and the modernization of pumping stations.

In addition to water, the budget prioritizes waste management and road rehabilitation. With the city's population continuing to grow, the pressure on refuse collection and transit infrastructure has reached a breaking point. The statement indicates that the city can now deploy resources toward these essential services, alongside public health initiatives aimed at bolstering the capacity of local clinics and emergency response units.

Tariff Adjustments and Resident Responsibility

A key component of the new fiscal framework is the implementation of a new tariff schedule, effective immediately. The city has officially notified residents, ratepayers, and stakeholders that the costs for various municipal services have been adjusted to reflect the current economic environment and the true cost of service delivery.

While tariff increases are often met with concern, the municipal leadership emphasizes that these contributions are vital for the sustainability of the city. To achieve the goals of road rehabilitation and improved public health, the city requires a consistent and predictable revenue stream from its inhabitants.

 Toward a World-Class City

The US$690 million 2026 budget is a testament to the City of Harare's desire to reclaim its status as a leading African capital. Through the partnership between the local government and the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works, the city has been granted the tools necessary to foster a cleaner, safer, and more efficient environment. As the 2026 fiscal year begins, the focus now shifts to the transparent and efficient utilization of these funds to ensure that the promises of improved service delivery become a reality for every ratepayer.