City of Harare Accused of Blocking ERP System to Loot Funds
By Loyd Matare
A shocking revelation has emerged from Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume, alleging that the City Council is intentionally blocking the implementation of a functional Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system to embezzle funds.
This accusation comes amidst reports of the council losing over US$10 million annually due to leakages exacerbated by the lack of an ERP system.
Mafume made these claims at the ongoing Commission of Inquiry, which is investigating the operations of Harare City Council since 2017.
He stated, “I have tried everything to get an ERP system installed at the Council. I end up being accused of interference, but I have done everything humanly possible to get an ERP in place. We cannot function without an ERP.”
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The Mayor further alleged that top officials at the City Council have formed a corruption cartel, profiting from the chaos caused by the lack of an ERP system.
“This is a deliberate act by our procurement department and management. They do not want an ERP system implemented,” Mafume said.
The Auditor General has repeatedly flagged financial mismanagement at Harare City Council, with over US$200 million unaccounted for.
Mafume suggested that the actual losses might be higher, citing anecdotal evidence of millions being paid out, duplicate payments being made, and some ratepayers’ fees being waived.
The City Council’s failure to audit its accounts for over five years has raised serious concerns about corporate governance at the Town House.
The lack of an ERP system has also resulted in over 100,000 households not being included in the council’s system, shortchanging the local government.
As the investigation continues, the people of Harare demand answers and accountability from their city officials.
The implementation of a functional ERP system is crucial in preventing further financial losses and ensuring transparency in the council’s operations.
