Source: Mafume pushes for road-marking equipment, asphalt plant to improve Harare roads – herald
Diana Nherera
Harare Mayor Councillor Jacob Mafume has called on the City of Harare’s Department of Works to urgently acquire road-marking equipment, paint-drying machinery and an asphalt plant to improve road maintenance and service delivery across the capital.
Speaking during a council meeting, Cllr Mafume said the city must invest in essential infrastructure and equipment to enhance its image and efficiency.
“Some of these things are basic necessities. Let us just buy them. We need a machine for marking pedestrian crossings and a drier ,” he said.
“The way we present ourselves as a capital city should demonstrate seriousness and efficiency.”
Cllr Mafume expressed concern over the city’s lack of an operational asphalt plant, saying it was unacceptable for a capital city to rely on external suppliers for such a critical service.
“A capital city cannot exist without an asphalt plant. It is simply not working for me,” Mayor Mafume said.
“We must acquire an asphalt plant. I also do not believe a city can function without its own crusher station. It does not make sense.”
He urged the Director of Works to prioritise the acquisition of road maintenance equipment and explore innovative funding options.
“If it means exchanging land for an asphalt plant or approaching the Ministry or even the President for assistance, then we must do it. We need solutions. I want that asphalt plant bought,” he said.
Cllr Mafume suggested the city could invest in several mobile asphalt plants to speed up road rehabilitation efforts across different parts of Harare.
“If we can buy three mobile plants, we can simultaneously repair roads in the eastern and western parts of the city. We need to cover potholes, build new roads and complement the support we receive from the Government,” he said.
The mayor also criticised the use of gravel in road repairs within the central business district, arguing that it creates unnecessary dust and damages the city’s appearance.
“The whole town will become red with dust. Someone wearing white clothes will end up looking as though they have spent the day in Hatcliffe,” he said.
“Where possible, let us work with tar. There may be some residential areas where gravel is acceptable because residents prefer that rather than driving through potholes, but certainly not in the CBD.”
Cllr Mafume further highlighted shortcomings in the city’s maintenance systems, saying the council lacked a comprehensive maintenance plan.
“We continue to face challenges because we do not have a proper maintenance programme in place. That is something we need to address urgently if we are to improve service delivery,” he said.
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