Harare reinstates old billing system amid resistance

Peter Tanyanyiwa Suburban Reporter

HARARE Mayor Jacob Mafume has announced that the municipality is in the final stages of reinstating the old Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP billing) system it was using until 2019, overcoming resistance and challenges from council managers.

The reinstatement of the Business Intelligence Quotient (BIQ) billing system, marks an end to a five-year period during which the city has operated without a billing system raising concerns over the municipality’s commitment to transparent financial management and accountability. Harare abandoned the BIQ billing system following disagreements with South African supplier, Quill Associates.

Councillor Mafume acknowledged the initial resistance faced in reinstating the ERP system, attributing it to attempts by council officials to siphon money from the municipality.

However, directives from Government, Parliament and the Auditor General, saw the City of Harare overcame the resistance of its managers to reinstate the billing system.

“Through unwavering determination and the support of Government directives, we have successfully reinstated the ERP system in the City of Harare. This marks a pivotal moment in our commitment to transparent financial management and accountability. The chosen ERP system not only ensures efficiency and cost-effectiveness but also addresses the speculated figures (bills), providing the best return for our residents,” said Cllr Mafume.

The Mayor also said the significance of transparency in financial management and the need to address the chaotic billing could not be over-emphasised.

He said the BIQ system is also used by Bulawayo City Council and the Zimbabwe National Water Authority.

The reinstatement follows years of frustrations by senior council officials who were exploiting the chaotic billing to line their pockets.