Andrew
Mashonaland West Bureau
The GOVERNMENT has approved the $1,2 billion budget for Makonde Rural District Council (MRDC), with funds from devolution expected to contribute significantly to the purse.
MRDC chief executive officer Mr Paradzayi Munyede said the budget was “pro-poor and pro-growth for the farming and mining district”.
In addition to funds from the devolution kitty, the budget will be backed by council’s own coffers.
“The council has prioritised recapitalisation of its road-making equipment in order to make roads trafficable. Purchase of tipper trucks and tractors will be done.
“Under social services, the council has resolved to establish its first boarding school at Ridziwi High School in Mhangura,” he said.
Additional funding would be allocated to the construction of classroom blocks and teachers’ accommodation throughout the district.
“Heavy investment shall be done to the health sector through construction of clinics and health posts across the district,
while provision of potable water will be a priority through purchase of a water drilling rig.”
The council is targeting to install water meters in Murereka and Lion’s Den.
Further, they will also purchase spares to repair boreholes in the district.
MRDC chairperson Mr Simbarashe Ziyambi said council had last year engaged communities in budget consultation meetings where residents, farmers and other stakeholders’ concerns were taken on board.
To address challenges of mugging around Lion’s Den and Mhangura, which are the district’s urban centres, council plans to install solar street lights.
Online Reporter