By Fanuel Chinowaita
Mutare, 26 November 2025 – The majority of Mutare residents have thrown their weight behind the city’s proposed 2026 tariff adjustments, with a recent council report showing 76% approval following extensive consultations across all wards.
Presenting the findings during last week’s full council meeting, Finance Committee Chairperson Councillor Calvin Matsiya said the consultations highlighted “strong community participation and clear support for the city’s financial plan.”
Between 20 and 27 October 2025, the City of Mutare held 24 ward-based meetings across 19 wards, with Wards 1, 2, 10, and 13 each hosting two sessions due to their large size and geographical spread.
According to the report, 19 out of the 24 meetings (79%) approved the proposed tariffs, while five meetings—including Ward 4, Ward 16, Ward 19, and two in Ward 18—rejected the proposals. “The majority of wards expressed satisfaction with the proposed tariff framework and acknowledged the need to strengthen service delivery,” the report noted.
The consultations also included sector-based and stakeholder forums, with feedback showing the proposed 2026 budget received 28 approvals against 9 objections, reflecting the 76% overall support.
Residents showed strong backing for key areas of the tariff framework: 58% supported the 14.2% review on all tariffs, 68.48% endorsed the 27% rates tariff review, and 72.85% backed the Education Special Rate.
“These approval levels reflect broad-based consensus,” the report said. “Residents understand the financial pressures facing the city and are willing to support adjustments that will enhance service delivery in 2026.”
Council concluded that the process was inclusive and effective, with officials noting that residents want to be part of the budgeting process.
With widespread community support, the City of Mutare is now poised to implement the 2026 tariff adjustments, signaling a collaborative approach to addressing the city’s financial and service delivery needs.