Staff Reporter
Residents in Harare’s Ward 17 are calling for relief from noise pollution linked to events at local sports clubs, prompting community leaders to implement strict regulations.
A meeting held yesterday with representatives from Alex Sports Club, OH Sports Club, City of Harare officials, and the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) resulted in new guidelines aimed at reducing disturbances caused by events at these clubs.
Ward 17 Councilor Happymore Gotora led the discussions, addressing residents' concerns over excessive noise and traffic disruptions.
Following the meeting, several resolutions were agreed upon to mitigate the issues.
One of the primary resolutions restricts event operations to end by 10:00 PM.
"No event, no matter what it is, should go beyond 22:00 hours. All sports clubs must ensure events conclude before this time," emphasised Gotora.
The meeting also established a protocol requiring sports clubs to secure permissions directly from the City of Harare rather than the ZRP, with the police only notified for security purposes.
"The ZRP should not grant permission for any event; it is solely the council's prerogative. Police will focus on maintaining peace, order, and security during events," Gotora explained.
Other measures include mandating that clubs to notify residents at least 14 days before an event and implementing noise reduction strategies.
"Noise levels should be as low as possible, and residents must be informed well in advance," Gotora noted.
To alleviate traffic congestion, clubs are now required to ensure that all vehicles associated with events are parked within club premises.
"The host must ensure all vehicles are parked inside to prevent road blockages. ZRP will impound vehicles parked at undesignated spots," Gotora stated.
In response to ongoing complaints, the Harare Town Clerk will issue direct instructions to sports clubs, reinforcing the new rules and raising public awareness on social media and through local media outlets.
"We are taking steps to remind sports clubs of their responsibility to uphold a peaceful environment for residents," Gotora concluded.
Residents are hopeful these measures will bring long-awaited relief from noise and traffic disruptions in their communities.
With the new guidelines in place, the council and ZRP are optimistic about striking a balance between supporting local sports clubs and preserving the rights of residents to enjoy a quiet and peaceful neighbourhood.
