CRD Accompanies PLRAC in Pressing MRDC on Service Delivery
Penhalonga Report on Service Delivery
Prepared by: Centre for Research and Development (CRD)
Date: 21 November 2025
Introduction
The Centre for Research and Development (CRD) recently accompanied the Penhalonga Low Residential Area Committee (PLRAC) to a joint meeting with the Penhalonga Area Development Committee (PADC) and Mutasa Rural District Council (MRDC) at Little Leaders School in Penhalonga. The high-powered MRDC delegation included the Chairperson, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Treasurer, and Planner. The engagement was convened in response to rapidly deteriorating public safety in Penhalonga, where unsafe mining, escalating violence, and collapsing service delivery have created a hazardous environment for thousands of households.
Opening Remarks
The CEO, Mr Bandure, opened the meeting by acknowledging that Penhalonga’s dual identity as a residential and mining area has increasingly become a conflict zone. Historically, underground mining coexisted with residents, but the rise of uncontrolled surface mining near homes has triggered litter problems, damaged roads, and severe social disruption. The CEO expressed particular concern over children exposed to prostitution, drugs, and violence thriving under unregulated mining activity. He stressed that empowerment of youths, women, and war veterans in Penhalonga must be done sustainably, not through illegal settlements or environmental destruction.
Regarding property rights, Mr Bandure noted that following diamond discoveries a few years ago, residents became eager to obtain title deeds to protect their homes. Council engaged a surveyor who completed the surveying process, but residents later declined to pay for the service, added Mr Bandure. He then emphasised that community leaders should encourage residents to pay for their title deeds, as leases do not provide the same level of security.
On water, the CEO reported that government efforts were underway to establish a water board to address the worsening crisis. He highlighted that the City of Mutare had already formed a water company, whose mandate would affect Mutasa. Furthermore, a stakeholder meeting was imminent to determine the structure of the new authority, including possible participation by local authorities as shareholders. The process was being overseen by the Minister of State for Manicaland Province, he said.
Deliberations.
Water Shortages
PADC highlighted that residents in Mahuswa, Hillcrest, and parts of Tsvingwe have been without running water for several months, forcing them to rely on unsafe springs. Only three boreholes serve the densely populated Mahwemasimike area, leading to frequent disputes due to scarcity. PADC recommended increasing the number of boreholes in Tsvingwe, particularly in Mahwemasimike, where some houses are located above the water supply tanks, making it impossible for water to reach them. PLRAC also reported that residents of Penhalonga Township were severely affected by water shortages, which was one of the main reasons for convening the meeting.
In response, the CEO reported that Betterbrands had approached the council with a proposal to mine on a hill overlooking Tsvingwe Medium and Penhalonga low residential areas, where the water tanks supplying Tsvingwe are located. This area falls within the Redwing mining lease. As part of their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), Betterbrands proposed to enlarge the water tanks and relocate them to higher ground. If approved by residents, this proposal has the potential to improve water supply across all areas of Tsvingwe, including Mahwemasimike.
The CEO further explained the measures MRDC had taken to minimise rationing periods. He requested that the Town Clerk ensure that when the water supply is rationed or temporarily disconnected, the Area Superintendent representing Penhalonga is present to witness the process and communicate with residents. He noted that residents have gone two to three months without water because they were not informed about the rationing schedules. He emphasised that residents must be notified both when the supply is suspended and restored, as sudden restoration creates high pressure that bursts pipes and causes further interruptions. He also urged residents to ensure that taps are closed during disconnections. In response to reports that some residents have begun drilling private boreholes out of desperation, the CEO warned that Penhalonga is a mining zone and borehole water may be contaminated with toxic substances such as cyanide. He proposed that water samples be tested at Africa University to ensure safety.
Regarding water challenges raised by PLRAC, the CEO stated that MRDC had discussed revitalising a borehole in the area funded by the Mining Portfolio (TMP) as part of Corporate Social Responsibility(CSR). However, it is unclear whether the source still has water. He pointed out that devolution funds expected to address the water crisis amounted to less than 1% of requirements. In that regard, Mr Bandure informed the gathering that the Planning Department will again meet with TMP to arrange an emergency intervention to revive the borehole.
Illegal Cabins and Public Safety
PLRAC reported that due to the influx of miners operating 24/7 in Penhalonga, there has been a multiplication of illegal settlements, resulting in increased criminal gangs, loitering, noise, and violence within residential areas. These illegal settlements, in the form of makeshift cabins and tuck shops, were not only harbouring dangerous criminals but enabling harmful activities such as drug peddling, illegal sale of beer and improper waste dumping. This has created a public health emergency and is exposing children to dangerous social conditions. Worse still, refuse trucks were not servicing the area, and access roads are increasingly limited. They added that they have been battling mining activities along the Mutare River, particularly in the “Island” area, which continues to attract illegal panners, vendors and criminal elements. Although EMA has issued a stop order, the community insists that open pits must be urgently closed to discourage further illegal activity.
PLRAC highlighted that they have been organising Policon patrols to curb loitering, working in collaboration with the police. They requested that the council grant the police authority to dismantle illegal cabins. They questioned why an “alien community” involved in crime was being allowed to operate under council watch, while law-abiding residents in low-density areas continue to pay high rates. In response, the CEO acknowledged that the operation requires the involvement of all stakeholders, especially law enforcement. PLRAC indicated that they have already engaged senior police officials who have expressed readiness to conduct joint operations once the council gives the mandate. The CEO agreed that the council will coordinate with the police to map a way forward. PLRAC recommended strict enforcement of planning regulations, allowing only one temporary cabin per stand during construction, instead of the multiple illegal cabins currently used for illicit activities. CRD questioned the empowerment model being applied, arguing that it infringes on the rights of residents by permitting unregulated business structures within residential zones. CRD emphasised that empowerment initiatives must be confined to designated commercial areas, adding that most illegal structures lack proper sanitation facilities, thereby worsening health and environmental risks.
All stakeholders agreed that many of the social problems in the area stem from the uncontrolled spread of illegal cabins, and urgent action was required to restore community safety and dignity.
Roads Infrastructure
PLRAC reported that roads were largely impassable during the rainy season, with vehicles skidding and damaging residents’ durawalls. The community has tried to maintain roads, but heavy trucks exacerbate damage. To improve safety and limit smuggling, PLRAC recommended gating some areas. MRDC Planner Mr Chikwiri responded that the planning team will conduct site assessments, map stand blocks, and provide recommendations for gated community establishment. The CEO requested that PLRAC submit written resolutions from the community meetings held earlier this year, so that the council can be properly guided in its decision-making. PADC highlighted that Tsambe road urgently needed gravelling before the rainy season. The CEO explained that the council grader was at CMED for repairs, requiring a new computer box and that some miners have pledged to assist with equipment to maintain the road.
PADC further reported that dust from ore trucks had become unbearable around the Tsvingwe shopping area and questioned why trucks cannot be rerouted to the Ministry road, which does not pass through busy retail zones. The CEO raised concerns about the relevance of the police roadblock at the St. Augustine turn-off since restricted heavy trucks carrying smuggled gold ore are still using the temporary bridge. PADC recommended the introduction of a boom gate to completely restrict such vehicles, while also pointing out that some trucks were accessing Tsvingwe directly from Redwing Mine. The CEO acknowledged the problem and committed to identifying a workable solution.
Additionally, PADC raised safety concerns about mining tunnels near Tsvingwe Secondary School and the dangerous condition of the footbridges used by learners travelling between Tsvingwe Secondary and Tsvingwe Medium Schools. The bridges were described as unsafe and posing a risk of drowning in the event of accidental falls. Councillor for the area, Mr Charinge, responded that the Penhalonga Development Association had already mobilised funds and formed a committee for the rehabilitation of the bridges. He said that engineers, including some from the army, who previously inspected the sites, have pledged to undertake the repairs once they complete ongoing work at Premier.
Key Follow Ups
PLRAC requested that the community be provided with timely feedback on matters raised with council. The CEO informed the meeting that budget consultations would begin soon. He noted that the draft budget had already been posted on social media and encouraged residents to review it beforehand to ensure they make meaningful contributions during the consultations.
The MRDC Treasurer explained that once water services are officially handed over to the City of Mutare, smart water meters will be introduced. Payments will be split, half going toward current water consumption and the other half toward clearing arrears. He urged residents who have received payment demands to visit the council and make payment plans to avoid escalation to court, noting that the Messenger of Court charges an additional 10% of the principal debt.
Closing Remarks
The MRDC Chairperson encouraged residents to remain active in clean-up campaigns and to continue working with council to maintain a clean and safe environment. He acknowledged the importance of community groups uniting to engage MRDC leadership in developing solutions to the issues affecting Penhalonga. He emphasised that such collective action was essential in confronting the difficult living conditions created by irresponsible mining operations and rising criminal activities. He further stressed that residents have a right to safe, dignified living conditions where they have invested in their properties. The Chairperson assured participants that the council was committed to addressing the resolutions raised by the community and strengthening service delivery in Penhalonga.
Summary of Penhalonga Community Resolutions
Submitted by PLRAC to Mutasa Rural District Council (MRDC)
10 November 2025
1. Residents reaffirm that mining operations and waste disposal activities must be restricted to designated mining zones and must not encroach into residential areas.
2. Residents reject the establishment of The Mining Portfolio (TMP) dumpsite within Penhalonga Residential Area, as it violates town planning regulations and exposes communities to hazardous air, soil, and water pollution.
3. MRDC is requested to enforce zoning regulations under the Regional, Town and Country Planning Act [Chapter 29:12] and formally provide supporting documentation to strengthen community's High Court interdict case against TMP and PVI plans to establish a Tailing Storage Facility in a residential area.
4. MRDC is urged to engage the Ministry of Mines, ZRP, EMA, and other authorities to halt illegal mining activities and facilitate the rehabilitation of the Mutare River, as continued riverbed mining is increasing criminal incidents and exposing residents to serious health and safety risks.
5. MRDC is required to urgently restore and maintain safe and reliable piped water services to all households in Penhalonga and Tsvingwe, in terms of Section 77(a) of the Constitution, which guarantees every person the right to safe, clean, and potable water, and Section 28 of the Rural District Councils Act [Chapter 29:13], which mandates councils to provide, maintain, and improve water supply and sanitation services for their communities, given that alternative sources such as boreholes and springs are at high risk of chemical contamination from mining activities.
6. MRDC is urged to urgently improve refuse collection services. Failure to collect waste has resulted in illegal dumping, blocked drainage systems, and increased disease risk. Council should publish a reliable refuse collection schedule and enforce anti-dumping bylaws.
7. Council must prioritise road rehabilitation, including gravelling of Tsambe Road and other key roads, and put measures in place to prevent heavy mining trucks from damaging community roads.
8. Residents propose the rehabilitation and modernisation of Penhalonga Social Centre, including a swimming pool and safe public recreation facilities for youth and families.
9. Residents request that MRDC hold regular quarterly consultative meetings with PLRAC to ensure timely feedback, accountability, and community participation in local governance.
10. Residents commit to paying rates and cooperating with the council under structured payment arrangements to avoid legal action and to support sustainable service delivery.
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