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Thupeyo Muleya
Beitbridge Bureau
Beitbridge Municipality has managed to address some of its service deficiencies in garbage collection, water and sanitation using the $8,687 million it received from Treasury in devolution funds over the last two years.
Prior to the disbursement, the local authority had been struggling to meet its obligations to its growing population owing to a limited revenue base.
The town has an estimated population of 70 000 and in normal circumstances hosts at least 15 000 visitors using the Beitbridge border post.
Yesterday the town unveiled a backhoe loader to the residents, which is part of the equipment bought using the funds.
Town clerk, Mr Loud Ramakgapola said they had so far they had acquired a backhoe loader, refuse compactor, Giga jetting machine, heavy-duty billing printer, a vehicle for the sewer section, and air conditioner for the server room.
“We bought the backhoe for $1,18 million using devolution funds. The machine was ordered towards the end of the year when we made two-part payments amounting to $1 180 000. We have been waiting for the machine since the beginning of the year and we are happy our supplier FAW Zimbabwe delivered,” said Mr Ramakgapola.
He said the municipality now wants to buy a tipper, a grader, and a compressor. In addition, he said next year it will start on the construction of an extra primary school.
Mr Ramakgapola said some of the funds will be spent on improving how the town handles its solid waste management initiatives.
Beitbridge residents and businesses are reportedly producing an estimated 1000 tonnes of solid waste monthly and the local authority is only able to collect between 700 and 800 tonnes.
Online Reporter