Chronicle Editor
Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu, [email protected]
GWANDA Municipality has taken a major step towards co-ordinated and effective implementation of development projects by establishing its first-ever Urban Development Committee in partnership with various Government departments.
Led by Gwanda District Development Co-ordinator, Ms Nomathemba Ndlovu, the committee aims to bridge the gap in technical expertise between line ministries and the municipality.
Ms Ndlovu emphasised the importance of such collaboration, citing the success of the Gwanda Rural District Co-ordinating Committee.
The Urban Development Committee will focus on addressing long-standing developmental challenges such as open defecation, water supply and road network infrastructure.
“We recognised the need for a more cohesive approach between Government departments and the municipality to ensure the success of development projects by establishing the Urban Development Committee,” said Ms Ndlovu.
She said the creation of various working committees under the new structure, together with council sub-committees, will ensure that technical expertise from relevant ministries is integrated into municipal operations.
She expressed confidence that such a co-ordinated approach would lead to significant improvements by pooling resources and expertise.
“This collaborative approach is expected to play a pivotal role in the town’s development, ensuring that Gwanda meets its goals for 2025 and beyond,” she said.
Gwanda mayor, Alderman Thulani Moyo, acknowledged the importance of improved co-ordination in achieving broader sustainable development goals, with the initiative marking a significant step towards achieving the national Vision 2030.
Alderman Moyo further elaborated on the practical benefits of the committee, including the need to collaborate with the Ministry of Health and Child Care in managing vending issues and regulating traffic and motorists with the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development.
“We recognised the need to enhance our co-ordination with Government departments. This is essential for our contribution to achieving Vision 2030,” said Alderman Moyo.
“There has been a significant gap between the municipality and Government departments, leading to blame games and finger-pointing. However, we are all working towards the same goal of developing our town.
“The establishment of the Urban Development Committee represents a strategic use of the provisions in the Urban Councils Act, demonstrating the municipality’s commitment to leveraging available resources for the betterment of Gwanda,” he said. — @DubeMatutu
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