Court Order Sparks Controversy as Mutare City Council Demolishes Maize Crops
MUTARE – Municipal workers in Sakubva Old Location yesterday demolished maize crops, prompting fierce criticism from residents who depend on the crops for sustenance.
The destruction, enforced by a court order due to violations of municipal by-laws, has raised concerns over the motivations behind the action.
Residents’ frustration stems from the fact that the demolished crops were their primary source of food and income.Many rely on urban farming to supplement their meager earnings and the destruction of their crops has left them feeling desperate.
“We were not given any notice or warning before the demolition. We woke up to find our crops being destroyed. It’s like they want to punish us for trying to survive,” said Tambudzani Moyo, a local resident.
The controversy has also raised questions about the city council’s priorities. Critics argue that the council should focus on providing basic services like water, sanitation and electricity, rather than targeting small-scale urban farmers.
“The city council should be supporting us, not taking away our livelihoods.We are not asking for much, just a chance to survive and provide for our families,”said Moyo.
As the situation continues to unfold, residents of Sakubva Old Location are anxiously waiting to see how the situation will be resolved.
Will the city council listen to their concernsor will they continue to enforce the court order?
