‘Mwewa Effect’ Spreads as LCC Orders Businesses to Repaint Premises
Lusaka City Council has ordered business owners and shop operators across Lusaka District to paint or repaint their premises and maintain them in a clean and presentable condition before health permits and certificates of compliance are issued or renewed.
The directive, dated October 6 and signed by Town Clerk Oliver Muuka, comes amid what is increasingly being described in public discourse as the “Mwewa Effect”, following Mayor Chitambala Mwewa’s intensified campaign to restore cleanliness and order in the capital.
“All business premises must be painted or repainted and maintained in a clean and presentable condition prior to the issuance, grant or renewal of health permits and/or certificates of compliance,” the Council said.
LCC says painting must be completed before applications for health permits are considered, while council officers will inspect premises to verify compliance. “Non-compliance may result in the rejection and/or cancellation of the health permit,” the notice states.
Businesses have also been ordered to provide hand-washing points and waste bins, while paint colours must be “appropriate and non-offensive” and branding must comply with existing signage and advertising regulations.
The Council says the measures are intended to improve Lusaka’s appearance, promote a clean trading environment and uphold public health and safety standards, as authorities intensify efforts to address street vending, sanitation and disorder in the capital.
The People’s Brief | Goran Handya