Harare– The City of Harare has received official approval for its 2026 budget from the national government, granting the local authority the legal mandate to collect new tariffs and fund critical services with immediate effect.

In a statement released on Friday, Acting Town Clerk Engineer Phakamile Mabhena. Moyo announced that the Minister of Local Government and Public Works has endorsed the fiscal plan in terms of Section 47 (1) of the Public Finance Management Act [Chapter 22:19].

The approval unlocks the financial framework required for the municipality to execute its planned projects for the coming year. Crucially, it triggers the implementation of a new tariff schedule, which the city confirmed is now in effect for all residents, ratepayers, and stakeholders.

“The approval of this budget provides the legal and financial framework for the City to execute its planned projects for the 2026 fiscal year,” read the statement.

With the legal barriers cleared, the city council is now authorized to deploy resources toward essential services. According to the statement, priority spending areas will include water provision, waste management, road rehabilitation, and public health initiatives.

The local authority moved to assure residents that the funds would be managed responsibly.

“We are dedicated to ensuring that every dollar allocated in the 2026 budget is used effectively to improve the lives of the people of Harare,” Eng. Moyo said.

The municipality also took the opportunity to thank residents and stakeholders for their patience and input during the often protracted budget formulation and review process that preceded the Minister’s nod.