Prince Chese
The Beitbridge Rural District Council (RDC) has reduced the development levy from R50 per person to R20 per person, in a move aimed at easing the financial burden on rural communities.
The decision was made during the Mid-Term Budget Review meeting held on Monday, 20 October 2025, at the RDC boardroom.
The meeting was chaired by Councillor Oscar Chiromo and attended by all ward councillors.
One of the key issues discussed was the difficulty in collecting the levy from rural households.
Speaking during the meeting, BBRDC CEO Kiliboni Mbedzi said this challenge prompted the proposal to lower the fee to improve compliance.
“ Previously, the development levy was charged per household, However, Section 96(3)(ii) of the law stipulates that in the case of a development levy, it must be charged per capita (per person),and following a circular from the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works dated 21 July 2025, the council agreed to revise the system and set the new rate at R20 per person,” said.
Mbedzi said every individual is required to pay the levy, including the elderly and newborns, as it contributes to essential services such as maternity care, education, and road infrastructure.
Ward 8 Councillor Luka Caster Ndou emphasized the importance of engaging traditional leaders to ensure they understand the changes and how the funds will be utilized.
“We should go around and inform them so they understand how the money is used,” said Ndou.
He also proposed the creation of a single account for all ward revenue collections to improve transparency and prevent misuse of funds.
“Each ward should submit development proposals on time to ensure proper planning and transparency,” she said.
The RDC confirmed that community consultations will take place from 27 to 31 October 2025 to inform traditional leaders and rural residents about the new levy system and ensure smooth implementation.