The Harare City Council has shut down 121 businesses in the central business district for non-compliance. The council’s initiative, “CBD Order Restoration,” aims to ensure businesses operate safely and within the law.

Inspectors found that many businesses were operating without licenses or with expired permits. Specifically, 79 businesses had no licenses, 27 had expired licenses, 50 shops had unauthorized internal partitioning, and 18 shops had water services disconnected.

The council will take action against non-compliant businesses, including demolition of unapproved structures and disconnection of services. Property owners with illegal developments will face stoppage orders and possible demolition.

The council’s message is clear: non-compliance will not be tolerated. Businesses must meet regulatory requirements to avoid penalties and closures. The initiative aims to restore order and safety in Harare’s CBD.

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