Councils Questioned Over Growing Number Of Beerhalls

Local authorities have been challenged to review their approach to business licensing and community development amid concerns over the rapid growth of bottle stores and beerhalls in some areas.

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works Tafadzwa Muguti raised the concerns on Monday in Kadoma during a Local Government Transformational Workshop attended by town clerks, secretaries and chief executive officers from all 92 local authorities.

District Development Coordinators and senior ministry officials also attended the meeting.

Muguti questioned the basis on which councils approve business licences, particularly in residential communities where alcohol outlets appear to be increasing.

He said some areas now had more establishments selling alcohol than essential facilities such as schools, clinics and industries.

“We now have more bottle stores and beerhalls in locations than schools, clinics and industries. We have more people who are intoxicated than occupied in something meaningful,” Muguti said.

“How can a council issue more licences for beerhalls and bottle stores instead of important social amenities?”

He said local authorities should ensure that their licensing and development decisions support productive communities and address the needs of residents.

Muguti also raised concerns over the allocation of unserviced residential stands by some rural district councils at growth points.

He said councils should focus on providing infrastructure and creating conditions that allow economic activities to develop.

“Growth points were meant for economic growth,” he said.

Muguti urged councils to reconsider their planning and land-use strategies and ensure they are aligned with national development priorities.

He said local authorities should place greater emphasis on infrastructure, economic development and social services as they seek to improve living conditions in both urban and rural communities.