Legislators urged to engage local communities

 

Post Reporter

 

VILLAGERS in Chimanimani have applauded the community dialogue programmes being conducted in their communities by the Zimbabwe Council of Churches (ZCC) to raise awareness on the utilisation of constitutional development funds (CDFs).

 

Speaking to The Manica Post, ZCC’s provincial ecumenical fellowship coordinator, Reverend Abel Waizivei, urged legislators to work closely with local communities.

 

He said as duty bearers they have to include the people they represent so that their voices are also heard in decision making processes.

 

This, he added, leads to the proper and effective utilisation of the CDFs.

 

“Issues pertaining to constitutional development funds must include the local people. The CDF committees must draw up lists of things they want prioritised in the development of their communities. This ensures that the interests of the majority of the people are reflected and represented.

 

“So as churches, we are going around sensitising communities and legislators encouraging them to engage each other by involving concerned parties so that they smoothly work together for everyone’s benefit,” said Rev Waizivei.

 

Transparency and accountability is achieved through this model, he added.

 

Chimanimani East legislator Cde Joshua Sacco said such programmes are important as they provide a platform for community leaders and the people to discuss issues affecting them and proffer solutions.