The High Court of Zimbabwe has issued an interim order barring the United Methodist Church from conducting religious services and other gatherings at its premises located at 9 Doveton Road, Borrowdale, Harare.
The ruling, delivered by Justice Munangati-Manongwa, follows a protracted legal dispute that has spanned over 15 years between the church and nearby residents. Residents from the Doveton Avenue area argued that the church’s activities have severely disrupted their neighborhood through excessive noise, traffic congestion, unauthorized roadblocks, and late-night services. They also cited increased disturbances caused by vendors drawn to the events.
According to court submissions, the church began operations at the Borrowdale property in 2006 without the necessary approvals to hold worship services or public events. Despite being advised by the City of Harare to cease activities until proper authorizations were obtained, the church continued its operations.
Although a town planning permit was granted in 2017, the court found that it did not grant permission for the premises to be used as a church or event venue. The church’s failure to obtain an operating license or provide the required documentation to the concerned residents led to legal action.
While the church claimed to have secured a change-of-use permit, the court determined that the permit did not equate to legal authorization to operate. It further ruled that the case could not be dismissed under the Prescription Act, as the violations were ongoing and the basis of the complaint stemmed from continued non-compliance.
Justice Munangati-Manongwa emphasized the residents’ right to the peaceful enjoyment of their property, which had been infringed upon by the church’s unauthorized activities. The ruling underlined that operating without proper licensing in a residential zone constitutes a breach of residents’ rights.
The court’s decision establishes a significant legal precedent concerning the regulation of religious and commercial activities within residential neighborhoods. Until the United Methodist Church obtains a valid operating license, it has been ordered to suspend all services and events at the Borrowdale premises. Additionally, the church has been instructed to cover the legal costs of the case.
This judgment marks a major victory for local residents who have been seeking relief for over a decade and reinforces the need for compliance with zoning and land-use regulations in urban Harare.
