Bunjiwe Mkwananzi
Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu [email protected]
GOVERNMENT has this year released ZWG$51,8 million to local authorities in Matabeleland South under the devolution programme out of an allocation of ZWG$1,2 billion, enabling councils to complete key development programmes.
In addition, Government released US$2,3 million under the 46th Independence Anniversary Legacy Projects Programme, which saw 43 devolution projects in Matabeleland South being completed. A total of 188 devolution projects have been initiated in the province since 2019.
Minister of State for Matabeleland South Provincial Affairs and Devolution Albert Nguluvhe urged local authorities to also prioritise purchasing yellow machines to ensure improved service delivery in the communities they serve.
“We thank Government for the devolution programme, which has helped to capacitate local authorities and equip them to ensure improved service delivery. A number of infrastructure development programmes, such as the construction of schools and clinics, have been rolled out across the province thanks to the devolution funds.
“Some local authorities have gone on to purchase yellow machines, which have helped them to render improved services in road maintenance, servicing stands, refuse collection, among others. I urge all local authorities to follow this route in order to meet minimum service delivery requirements,” he said.
With social amenities and infrastructure development being some of the major pillars of the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2), local authorities have used devolution funds to augment efforts by communities and other stakeholders by ensuring that projects are completed timeously.
Devolution funds are assisting local authorities to fulfil their obligations across the country through the development of key infrastructure such as clinics, classroom blocks, roads, bridges and other facilities. Devolution funds have transformed several districts in the Matabeleland region as the Second Republic steps up its inclusive developmental philosophy of leaving no one and no place behind.
The devolution programme is one of the key pillars under NDS2. The overarching goal of NDS2 is to ensure high, accelerated, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, as well as socio-economic transformation and development, as the country moves towards an upper middle-income society by 2030.
@DubeMatutu
Online Reporter