derick.khumalo
Sikhulekelani Moyo
[email protected]
THE decision to decentralise national programs to provinces is driving inclusive development, boosting domestic tourism and strengthening governance, Bulawayo Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister Judith Ncube has said.
Speaking during the opening of capacity building workshop on Public Finance Management, Budget Process and Analysis in Bulawayo on Saturday, Minister Ncube thanked Parliament for choosing the City of Kings and Queens to host the important national program.
“I sincerely thank the Parliament of Zimbabwe for choosing our province to host this important national program,” said Minister Ncube. “Bulawayo is proudly known as the City of Kings and Queens, a title that speaks to our rich cultural heritage, our history, our dignity and our renowned hospitality.”
The Minister described Zimbabwe’s second largest city as a long-standing centre of commerce, industry, culture and tourism.
“A city where tradition meets modernity, where visitors are welcomed with open hands and where every corner tells a story of our nation’s proud history,” she said.
She encouraged delegates to experience the province’s attractions during the two-day workshop, highlighting the Matopo Hills UNESCO World Heritage Site with its balancing rocks, ancient rock art and wildlife, as well as the city’s resorts and recreational facilities.
Minister Ncube said hosting national programs outside Harare delivers direct benefits to local communities.
“The decision by the Parliament of Zimbabwe to host the national programs in provinces such as Bulawayo is highly commendable,” she noted.
“Beyond sharpening the capacity of honourable members and parliamentary staff, such initiatives promote domestic tourism, stimulate the local economy and support our hotels, transport operators, restaurants and small business sales all while showcasing the immense investment in tourism potential that Bulawayo has to offer.”
She described the approach as a clear demonstration of Parliament’s commitment to ensuring that national institutions contribute meaningfully to inclusive provincial development in keeping with our national development agenda.
The workshop focuses on budget analysis and public finance management.
Minister Ncube said building capacity in these areas will strengthen Parliament’s oversight role.
“The workshop you are commencing today is both timely and significant. Parliament plays a pivotal role in safeguarding transparency, accountability and the prudent management of public resources… strengthening the capacity of honourable members and Parliament staff in budget analysis and public finance management will undoubtedly sharpen Parliament’s oversight role and ultimately translate into improved service delivery for the people of Zimbabwe,” added Minister Ncube.
The Minister urged delegates to enjoy the city’s hospitality.
“It is therefore my sincere hope that even as you engage in these important discussions you will also enjoy the warmth, the hospitality and the unique charm of our city,” she said.
I trust that your stay in Bulawayo will be as productive as it is memorable and that you will leave here not only better equipped but also proud ambassadors of the City of Kings and queens.
“I promise you the more you visit the more you will discover that Bulawayo is not just a destination but an experience.”
