Online Reporter
Mthokozisi Ncube
VILLAGERS IN Izimnyama , Matabeleland South – In Ward 2, have sparked a grassroots revolution ledl by councillor Tshetshukuza Ngwenya, to build their future one brick at a time.
Cllr Ngwenya says waiting for outside help is no longer an option.
“A lot of work still needs to be done if we really want to see development in this community,” he said. “For now, we are taking on a few projects ourselves, because no one else will do it for us.”
One major undertaking is the construction of a much-needed clinic in Osabeni, a project the villagers themselves pushed for.
“The residents decided this clinic must be built, and they are the ones making it happen,” Cllr Ngwenya explained.
Other ambitious plans include installing a solar-powered water system to replace unreliable boreholes.
“The solar system will make it easier to pump water into the dip tank, which will help keep our cattle healthy,” Cllr Ngwenya said.
Education is also a priority. Nxele Primary School is already under construction, and there are discussions about setting up a private secondary school in the area.
Unlike donor-funded projects, Ward 2’s development is entirely community-driven. Villagers pool their money through local fundraising efforts, hire builders from within the community, and create jobs in the process.
Among their recent successes is a bridge linking Vaka to Mapulula 1 village, built with help from neighbouring Ward 12 villahers. There’s also a newly built cottage near Vaka Primary School, showing what self-reliance can achieve.
Cllr Ngwenya summed it up with a rallying cry:
“The country is built, prayed for, and paid for by its owners.”
