Online Reporter
Sikhumbuzo Moyo, Senior Reporter
BUBI Rural District Council in Matabeleland North Province has purchased 29 motorcycles for its councillors at a cost of US$37 700, a move set to significantly improve their ability to stay connected with constituents.
The motorcycles were handed over to the councillors last week by Bubi Constituency legislator, Cde Simelisizwe Sibanda, during a brief ceremony at the council offices.
Bubi RDC chief executive officer, Dr Partson Mlilo, said the motorcycles were procured to enable councillors to move around their wards with ease and at minimal cost, given that motorcycles are economical on fuel.
“We bought 29 motorcycles for the councillors at a cost of US$37 700. This will allow them to hold meetings in their villages, attend school development meetings as ex-officio members, monitor projects in their wards without transport limitations, and attend meetings at council offices and other areas in the district without challenges,” said Dr Mlilo.
Council chairperson, Clr Thembani Khumalo, said the purchase was in response to a Ministry of Local Government and Public Works circular on councillors’ perks, which provided for motorcycle loans.
“Bubi RDC embraced this initiative and has procurred and handed over the motorbikes to its councillors, including those serving under the women’s quota. This is part of the council’s strategy to improve service delivery, strengthen local governance and enhance community engagement across the district,” said Clr Khumalo.
He said that Bubi jurisdiction covers a vast geographic area with dispersed settlements, making mobility essential for effective representation. The provision of motorbikes is therefore a practical intervention addressing long-standing challenges related to travel, project monitoring, and communication with communities.
“Many areas within Bubi District are remote, with limited public transport and, in some cases, poor road networks. Equipping councillors with motorbikes ensures they can reach communities more regularly, attend local meetings, and respond to issues raised by residents without delays. The motorbikes will also improve the monitoring and supervision of development projects,” said Clr Khumalo.
He noted that councillors are expected to oversee ward-level initiatives such as road maintenance, water points, schools, clinics, and community development programmes. Reliable transport enables them to conduct frequent site visits, provide timely reports, and support accountability in project implementation. The allocation also promotes improved co-ordination between councillors and the council administration.
“With greater mobility, councillors can attend statutory meetings, consultations, and training sessions at council offices more consistently, thereby improving governance processes and decision-making.
“The initiative promotes efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Instead of relying on hired transport or irregular means of travel, councillors now have a dedicated and sustainable mode of transportation, which ultimately enhances their performance and service to the community,” said Clr Khumalo.
He emphasised that the provision of motorbikes is a strategic investment aimed at boosting the effectiveness of local leadership, promoting development, and ensuring that councillors remain visible, active and accountable within their respective wards.
