Online Reporter
Sikhumbuzo Moyo
THE Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Daniel Garwe, has approved the Hwange Local Board’s US$7,93 million 2026 budget, setting the stage for what council says will be an intensified drive toward improved service delivery and infrastructure development.
The approval, granted on January 28, gives the local authority the green light to implement its financial plan to service delivery with effect from January 1, 2026.
According to the official notice released by HLB, the approved budget totals US$7 930 338,03, broken down into a revenue budget of US$3 685 956,20 and a capital budget of US$4 244 381,83.
The sizeable capital allocation signals a strong focus on infrastructure development, maintenance and service upgrades in the town, amid growing expectations from residents for improved roads, water systems and sanitation services.
In a statement, the local authority expressed gratitude to residents, businesses and institutions who participated in the 2026 budget consultative process, saying their input helped shape the town’s developmental priorities.
“The Hwange Local Board extends its sincere appreciation to all residents, businesses, institutions and stakeholders who actively participated in the 2026 Budget consultative process. Your valuable contributions continue to shape the developmental priorities of our community,” reads part of the notice.
Council also pledged prudent financial management, transparent reporting and improved service delivery — commitments that residents across the country have increasingly demanded from local authorities.
The approval comes at a time when local authorities are under pressure to demonstrate tangible improvements in service delivery, financial discipline and infrastructure rehabilitation.
With the capital budget surpassing the revenue allocation, expectations will be high that Hwange sees visible development projects during the course of 2026.
