Chiredzi Rural District Council to Fine Homesteads Without Toilets $20

"Chiredzi – Chiredzi Rural District Council (RDC) will fine households without toilets $20 per year, according to a recent announcement. This decision comes as 63% of rural households in the district lack sanitation facilities, citing a Zimbabwe Livelihoods Assessment Committee (ZimLAC) 2024 report.

Council Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Ailes Baloyi revealed that the council resolved to fine households without toilets $5 per quarter, amounting to $20 annually. Baloyi was represented by council Finance Director, Dr. Misheck Kutumba, at the meeting where the resolution was announced.

The ZimLAC 2025 report indicates that 43% of the district practices open defecation. To combat this, chiefs will work alongside the council to impose fines on households without toilets and those caught defecating in open spaces. Chief Sengwe, who attended the meeting, expressed support for the move, citing the reluctance of people in his area to construct toilets despite previous efforts to encourage them.

Other chiefs, including Chief Tshovani and Chief Chilonga, also welcomed the decision. Chief Tshovani mentioned that he has started banning large gatherings at households without toilets in his area, while Chief Chilonga believes the move will help reduce the spread of waterborne diseases like cholera.