Online Reporter
Patrick Chitumba, Zimpapers Writer
THE Government on Friday commissioned two utility vehicles and two motorbikes worth US$61 400, procured by Gweru City Council (GCC) to enhance service delivery across the city. The commissioning ceremony, held at the Town House, was presided over by the Minister of State for Midlands Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Owen Ncube, and attended by councillors, management, employees and residents.
Minister Ncube said the procurement of the vehicles using internally generated funds demonstrated the council’s strong budget performance and commitment to delivering efficient services.
“It is with immense pleasure that I address you on this occasion where Gweru City Council is commissioning two utility vehicles and two motorbikes worth US$61 400, procured through internally mobilised funds, illustrating the council’s commendable budget performance,” he said.
The Minister said the development reflected the transformative trajectory of the Second Republic under President Mnangagwa, particularly in driving improved service delivery through the Call to Action: No Compromise to Service Delivery blueprint launched in 2023.
“As you may be aware, President Mnangagwa launched the Call to Action blueprint to accelerate accessible, quality and affordable services across all 92 local authorities,” he said.
Minister Ncube commended GCC for aligning its operations with Vision 2030 and effectively utilising devolution funds. He said enhanced staff mobility would improve response times, efficiency and overall service delivery as the country works towards attaining upper-middle-income status ahead of 2030.
“As part of its corporate governance reforms, the Second Republic fully supports efficient revenue collection by local authorities, as it is the basis for quality and affordable service provision,” he said, while urging ratepayers to settle their bills to help council sustain service delivery.
The Minister said President Mnangagwa’s vision for socio-economic transformation was centred on inclusivity, private sector-led innovation, industrialisation and national values such as hard work, accountability and patriotism.
“My office will continue monitoring service delivery in the Midlands to ensure adherence to the Whole-of-Government, Whole-of-Society and Whole-of-Economy approach,” he said.
He added that the new vehicles demonstrated the Government’s commitment to people-centred and results-driven development.
“I also applaud Gweru City Council for its proactive approach, and I am reliably informed that two refuse compactors are on their way from Harare to boost the current fleet,” he said.
The Minister further reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to implementing Devolution and Decentralisation to empower local authorities and improve ease of doing business. He urged the Ministry of Local Government to expedite the release of master plans to guide infrastructure development.
In his welcome remarks, Gweru Mayor Clr Martin Chivhoko said the new service vehicles marked an important milestone in improving the council’s operational efficiency.
“They will greatly enhance our ability to respond to emergencies and provide essential services. This investment demonstrates our commitment to keeping the city clean, safe and prosperous,” he said.
He also emphasised the need for accountability in managing council resources.
“We are committed to ensuring that these vehicles are used efficiently and effectively to deliver services that benefit our citizens,” he said.
