Delays cast doubt on relocation of Matabeleland North provincial offices to Lupane

RELOCATION of Matabeleland North provincial offices from Bulawayo to Welshman Mabhena Government offices in Lupane by the end of this month is now in doubt with the Government saying US$ 1 million is needed to complete the remaining works. The Government says the remaining works might spill into 2025.

Construction of the offices began in 2012 soon after Lupane district was granted provincial capital status. Speaking in Parliament yesterday, the Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Daniel Garwe said the 2024 projected completion date and a subsequent commissioning of the Complex was set for June 30 but due to competing financial commitments, all the planned completion targets have been missed including the 2018 one.

“It is clear that with the three weeks to go before the 30 June target, 2024 – Mr Speaker Sir, these answers were prepared three weeks ago – will have to be shifted to a later date which, if financial support is not received, it might spill into the year 2025,” said Minister Garwe in parliament recently.

Minister Garwe was responding to a question by legislator Sethulo Ndebele who wanted to know why Matabeleland North provincial offices are still housed at Mhlahlandlela Government Complex in Bulawayo when there have been reports that there is the Welshman Mabhena Government Complex in Lupane, the provincial capital.

Minister Garwe said the outstanding works at the complex include perimeter fencing, landscaping and construction of the main gate.

“Outstanding payments as well as outstanding works require US$957 510,” said Minister Garwe.