Online Reporter
Remember Deketeke
Herald Correspondent
GOVERNMENT has underscored the significance of enhancing grassroots outreach, emphasising that empowering District Development Officers (DDOs) is essential for achieving the country’s development and empowerment goals.
This was articulated by Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Minister Senator Monica Mutsvangwa at the official handover of 15 brand new vehicles to DDOs across the country in Harare.
Sen Mutsvangwa said the initiative sought to improve mobility and service delivery, particularly at the community level.
DDOs play a crucial role in connecting the Government with the people, ensuring that services reach even the most remote areas.
“We are not just giving out cars today; we are giving out tools of transformation. These vehicles must go into every village, every ward, every growth point. There must be no excuse for not reaching the last person,” she stated, emphasising the importance of accessibility in service provision.
“The vehicles, which will be distributed to officers in all provinces, are part of a broader effort by the Ministry to decentralise services and promote gender equity.
“The aim is to enhance the implementation of women and youth empowerment programmes, ensuring that these initiatives have a tangible impact at the local level,” she said.
Sen Mutsvangwa stressed that if DDOs fail to reach the people, then the Government has failed in its mission.
“If District Development Officers fail to reach the people, then the Government has failed. You are the hands and feet of our Ministry in the field,” she stated, reinforcing the vital role that DDOs play in the Government’s outreach efforts.
The Minister also pointed out that the vehicles will not only enhance accessibility but will also support the monitoring of small and medium enterprises (SMEs). They are crucial for implementing self-sustaining initiatives and coordinating anti-gender-based violence (GBV) interventions, which are essential for fostering a safer environment for all.
“We want to end GBV in every corner of Zimbabwe. These cars must go into those communities and ensure we reach the most vulnerable: women, children, and the youth,” she said, highlighting the Government’s commitment to addressing pressing social issues.
In addition to boosting service delivery, Minister Mutsvangwa urged DDOs to ensure regular reporting and visibility of their activities. This transparency is vital for demonstrating the impact of Government programmes on the ground.
The districts that received vehicles were Wedza, Mtoko, Zaka, and Chivi, among others, marking a significant step toward enhanced local governance and community engagement.
