Online Reporter
Thupeyo Muleya
Chief Tshitaudze of Beitbridge has implored newly sworn-in Ward 14 Councillor Thamson Lamula Ndou and other Beitbridge Rural District Council (BBRDC) councillors to respect traditional leaders and engage with the community to address challenges in their wards.
Speaking at the swearing-in ceremony on Monday, Chief Tshitaudze emphasised the importance of collaboration between councillors and traditional leaders to drive development and improve service delivery.
The renowned farmer in the Mazunga area automatically became a councillor after he was the only candidate who filed his nomination papers at the court, which sat at the BBRDC offices last month.
The seat fell vacant in December last year following the death of Councillor Milton Ndou.
“I congratulate Cllr (Thamson) Ndou on his election and let me point out that councillors must work closely with traditional leaders and the community to identify and address issues affecting our people,” Chief Tshitaudze said.
“By doing so, we can ensure that our wards receive the services they deserve and that our communities thrive.
“These wards have many challenges, which will only be fixed if we all collaborate with one vision.
“It is important that we continue to engage as traditional leaders, councillors and other development agencies to build synergies and resolve challenges and issues as they arise.”
The traditional leader also reminded Cllr Ndou to be accessible and responsive to the needs of his ward.
Chief Tshitaudze said the wards across the district were having various challenges, including infrastructure development, water and sanitation, and economic empowerment.
He reiterated that engagement at ward level was a fundamental component of local governance, which serves as the primary bridge between residents, traditional leaders and local authorities to promote accountability and sustainable development.
Zanu PF’s central committee member, Cde Metrine Mudau, who is also the former legislator for Beitbridge West, who also witnessed the process, said the councillors should embrace collaboration to ensure the envisaged Vision 2030 becomes a living reality.
“You must remain the servant of the people and leave no one behind and address issues affecting your ward, the district and the local authority,” she said.
