GEO Pomona Yet to Begin Operations as Harare’s Waste Crisis Worsens

GEO Pomona, the private company contracted to manage waste collection in Harare, has yet to commence operations, leaving uncollected garbage piling up in residential areas.

Under pressure from the Ministry of Local Government, the Harare City Council signed an agreement last year with GEO Pomona Waste Management. The deal mandates the company to collect 650 tonnes of waste daily at a rate of US$40 per tonne.

However, two months into the year, garbage remains uncollected in many parts of the city, leading to the emergence of illegal dumpsites as some areas go weeks without refuse collection.

The Combined Harare Residents Association (CHRA) director, Reuben Akili, has criticized the deal, arguing that it primarily benefits officials rather than residents.

“As CHRA, we have always maintained that the GEO Pomona project is not about improving waste management. The current situation proves that this was never about service provision but rather a scheme to drain council funds. Those who pushed for this project now have to face the reality of its failure,” Akili stated.

He also pointed out that the privatization of the Pomona dumpsite has made waste collection more expensive for the council.

Initially, the Harare City Council opposed GEO Pomona’s takeover but later conceded under government pressure. The company, linked to businessman Delish Nguwaya, was formed in 2022 following a US$350 million waste-to-energy deal with Dutch firm Geogenix BV.

The partnership has sparked widespread controversy among residents, who remain skeptical about its effectiveness.

Responding to concerns over delays, GEO Pomona’s public relations officer, Siphathisiwe Masuku, attributed the situation to a transitional phase.

“We fully understand the challenges of waste collection and the responsibility placed upon us. Currently, we are finalizing key logistics to establish an efficient and sustainable waste management system. This involves defining operational zones, identifying transfer points, and arranging servicing and parking facilities for collection vehicles,” Masuku explained.

She added that during this period, the City of Harare is still handling door-to-door waste collection, and discussions are ongoing regarding the transfer of employees to ensure experienced personnel remain part of the initiative.

Once all necessary preparations are complete, GEO Pomona will announce the official launch of its operations.

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