Welcome to our live coverage from the Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre in Bulawayo, where President Mnangagwa is expected to interface with councillors from all 92 local authorities in Zimbabwe.

The high-level indaba, set to culminate in the launch of the Minimum Service Delivery Standard Framework, marks the second such engagement by the Head of State following last year’s interface in Harare.

That meeting birthed a national roadmap under the banner “A Call to Action: No Compromise to Service Delivery”, which laid the groundwork for transforming how councils operate as the country accelerates towards Vision 2030.

The new service standards, approved by Cabinet in May, are designed to streamline core local government services such as water provision, waste management, road maintenance, and housing, among others. Officials say this framework will enhance accountability and consistency in delivery — with digital dashboards being rolled out for real-time tracking of performance.

Stay tuned as our Senior Reporters Nqobile Bhebhe and Sikhumbuzo Moyo alongside Chief Photographer Eliah Saushoma and Obey Sibanda will bring you live updates, images, video snippets, and behind-the-scenes insights from today’s event, including key speeches, reactions from local authority officials and the anticipated unveiling of the Urban State Land Framework.

President Mnangagwa is expected to jet into Bulawayo this morning at the Joshua Mqabuko International Airport.

The President will head to the Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre, where he will tour various exhibitions with the Minister of Local Government and Public Works Daniel Garwe leading this section of the programme.

Electric atmosphere as over 3000 delegates await  launch of two landmark local government policy frameworks

AN electric atmosphere has enveloped the Zimbabwe International Conference and Exhibition Smart City (ZICES) in Bulawayo, the venue of the much-anticipated launch of two landmark local government policy frameworks.

Decked in national colours and buzzing with anticipation, the auditorium is a hive of activity with close to 3 000 delegates comprising mayors, councillors, chief executive officers, Government ministers, senior Government officials and parastatal heads from all corners of the country converging at the venue in what observers have described as a historic gathering for local governance.

From the moment delegates began streaming in, the spirit of unity and purpose is palpable.

Inside the auditorium, an explosion of song and dance greets every arriving dignitaries.

Delegates, seated according to their jurisdictions, occasionally burst into spontaneous ululations punctuated by the rhythmic clapping of hands creating a jubilant mosaic of culture and patriotism.

Today’s interface is being held under the backdrop of a new era of accountability, with all local authority executives having recently signed performance contracts aimed at bolstering efficiency and service delivery.

The mood is one of optimism, with many anticipating that the new frameworks will usher in a culture of measurable results and responsive governance.

President Mnangagwa, the guest of honour, is expected to deliver a keynote address that delegates believe will chart a transformative course for the country’s local authorities.

His speech is eagerly awaited, with the expectation that it will provide strategic direction, reaffirm Government’s commitment to devolution, and energise local structures to serve communities more effectively.

More to follow. . . 

WATCH: Ms Valentine Machaya Goromonzi Rural District in Mashonaland East. Ward 24 Mandlay Park speaks on the importance of local authorities engagement with President Mnangagwa.

Some of the exhibition stands President Mnangagwa will tour.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

WATCH: Delegates at the launch of two policies, the Minimum Service Delivery Standards Framework and the Urban State Land Management Policy entertain themselves as they await official start of proceedings.

The 4th edition of the All-Local Authorities Indaba is held under the theme “Benchmaking service delivery towards attainment of Vision 2030.”

Local Authorities called to establish drug rehabilitation centres

LOCAL authorities across Zimbabwe are being urged to take decisive action in addressing the country’s growing substance abuse crisis by establishing publicly accessible drug rehabilitation centres in their communities.

This call to action comes amid rising concerns from mental health professionals and civic leaders who have noted the severe shortage of affordable treatment options for individuals suffering from substance use disorders.

Speaking at the ongoing 4th Edition of All Councillors Indaba in Bulawayo, Ingutsheni Central Hospital cheif executive officer Dr Nemache Mawere appealed to local authorities to set up rehabilitation centres.

Ingutsheni is of the country’s largest psychiatric institutions

“Our biggest challenge at Ingutsheni Hospital is that there are no other centres which are looking after people who are suffering from mental health problems,” he said.

“The biggest mental health problem we have at the moment is related to substance use problems.”

“There are very few rehabilitation centres in this country. The few which we have are all for profit,” he said.

“It’s my call to action for you councillors to start thinking along the lines of establishing substance use centres in your different areas to look after people who are suffering from substance use problems.”

Speaking during Tuesday’s post-Cabinet briefing, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister, Dr Jenfan Muswere said government has scaled up its aggressive, multi-pronged offensive against drug and substance abuse, arresting over 1 400 suspects and dismantling dozens of illegal drug havens between March and June.

This is part of a broader strategy combining law enforcement, youth empowerment and prevention initiatives.

President Mnangagwa has championed efforts to combat the scourge, which he has described as a menace to both the country and the region.

Global trends indicate that the abuse of drugs and harmful substances results in 3,3 million deaths each year, with at least 15,3 million persons having drug use disorders.

Resultantly, approximately 60 percent of patients admitted in mental health institutions suffer from drug use disorders.

Over 3,000 Local Govt Officials converge in Bulawayo for landmark ZICES Indaba

A historic convergence of over 3,000 local government officials, including councillors drawn from all 92 local authorities across the country, is expected at the Zimbabwe International Conference and Exhibition on Smart Cities (ZICES) in Bulawayo, where President Mnangagwa is set to headline a strategic interface with grassroots leadership.

In what is being hailed as a pivotal moment for local governance transformation, the high-level engagement is set to culminate in the launch of two landmark policy frameworks by President Mnangagwa.

The two policies — the Minimum Service Delivery Standards Framework and the Urban State Land Management Policy — are expected to significantly enhance the operational efficiency of local authorities while reinforcing the national development agenda under Vision 2030.

The Minimum Service Delivery Standards Framework will standardise and improve service delivery across all tiers of local government, ensuring communities enjoy consistent and measurable improvements in essential services.

On the other hand, the Urban State Land Management Policy seeks to bring clarity, order, and accountability to how councils administer state land in urban centres — a key lever in addressing issues such as illegal settlements and haphazard urban expansion.

The 4th edition of the All Local Authorities Indaba is being held under the theme: “Benchmarking Service Delivery Towards Attainment of Vision 2030.”

According to the official programme, proceedings will begin with a tour of exhibitions, followed by welcome remarks from the Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Bulawayo Province, Judith Ncube.

The Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Honourable Daniel Garwe, is expected to follow with formal introductions before inviting the guest of honour, President Mnangagwa, to deliver the keynote address that will anchor the day’s deliberations.

The event, running under the stated theme, is a critical milestone in aligning local governance practices with the Second Republic’s thrust of modernisation, devolution, and inclusive growth.

It reaffirms the centrality of local authorities in national development and the President’s commitment to building smart cities, responsive institutions, and empowered communities.

President Mnangagwa arrives in Bulawayo for launch of the Minimum Service Delivery Standards Framework and the Urban State Land Management Policy at an Indaba

PRESIDENT Mnangagwa has arrived in Bulawayo ahead of the launch of the Minimum Service Delivery Standards Framework and the Urban State Land Management Policy at an Indaba to be attended by councillors and senior executives from the country’s 92 local authorities.

The Indaba will be held at the Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre’s Hall Two (ZIEC) today.

President Mnangagwa was welcomed at the Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport by the Vice President Kembo Mohadi, Bulawayo Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Judith Ncube, Indaba host Minister Daniel Garwe who is the Minister of Local Government and Public Works, other Cabinet Ministers, Zanu-PF politburo members as well as Service Chiefs.

The Minimum Delivery Standards Framework is aimed at driving improved outcomes for transformed livelihoods in line with Vision 2030 targets while Urban State Land Management Policy is meant to guide councils on how to handle land issues.

The Ministry of Local Government and Public Works in conjunction with the Zimbabwe Local Government Association (ZILGA) is hosting the high-level meeting at the Zimbabwe International Conference and Exhibition Smart City (ZICES) whose outcome is expected to improve councils’ services delivery. Today’s interface is the second after President Mnangagwa met representatives of all local authorities in Harare in November 2023, leading to the launch of the blueprint: “A Call to Action. No Compromise on Service Delivery”.

This was the first stage of interventions by the Second Republic aimed at modernising the operations of local authorities towards Vision 2030.

Besides the launch of the two documents, President Mnangagwa is also expected to touch on the welfare of councilors, looking at issues to do with housing stands and duty-free car import scheme.

A total of 3 000 delegates, including councillors from across the country, Government ministers, senior Government officials, and heads of parastatals, will attend the event.

President Mnangagwa has arrived at the Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre where he will preside over the 4th edition of the All Councilors Indaba. At the event, President Mnangagwa will also launch the Minimum service delivery standards policy and the Urban Stateland management policy.

 

 

 

 

 

President Mnangagwa tours various exhibition stands

 

 

 

 

 

 

WATCH: President Mnangagwa receives rousing welcome

President Mnangagwa has been greeted with thunderous applause and uncontainable excitement by a crowd of over 3000 enthusiastic delegates at the Zimbabwe International Conference and Exhibition on Smart Cities (ZICES), held in the heart of Bulawayo.

The vibrant gathering has brought together a diverse mix of local government leaders, including councillors representing all 92 local authorities from across the country, a powerful show of unity and commitment to national progress.

As the President and his entourage stepped into the gleaming auditorium, their entrance beamed across giant screens, prompting an eruption of cheers, ululations that electrified the room.

Now in its fourth edition, the All Local Authorities Indaba is themed “Benchmarking Service Delivery Towards the Attainment of Vision 2030,” echoing Zimbabwe’s ambitious drive toward modern, people-centred governance and smart urban development.

Two policies, Minimum Service Delivery Standards Framework and the Urban State Land Management Policy are expected to be launched by President Mnangagwa.

 

PRESIDENT Mnangagwa has reaffirmed the deep-rooted historical and brotherly ties between Zimbabwe and Mozambique, saying the two nations continue to share a bond forged during the liberation struggle.

Departing from his prepared speech here in Bulawayo today, the President reflected on Mozambique’s 50th Independence Day celebrations, which he attended in Maputo yesterday, and called on Zimbabweans to emulate Mozambique’s model of unity and development.

“Yesterday I was in Mozambique celebrating with them their 50th independence celebrations representing you,” said the President.

He said the unity and development achieved by Mozambique under the leadership of the ruling Frelimo party was testimony to what determined, revolutionary people can achieve.

“The Mozambicans said the relationship between them and us is strong. They view us as one family and we also view them in the same manner,” he said.

President Mnangagwa noted the transformative progress made by Mozambique since independence.

“They said at their independence there were no more than 10 schools, but now there are many. Almost from zero to thousands of schools, clinics built by Frelimo, the ruling party.”

He said this example should serve as an inspiration to Zimbabweans to contribute meaningfully to national development.

“We should remain united. No to chaos. No one knows everything, everyone is important,” he said.

The President also revealed that Mozambican President Daniel Chapo had expressed solidarity with Zimbabwe.

“Mozambique President (Chapo) said when Zimbabwe was liberated, they rejoiced. President Chapo was excited to see me.”

President Mnangagwa’s remarks come as both countries continue to consolidate bilateral cooperation in trade, security, and infrastructure, built on the firm foundation of shared liberation history.

 

PRESIDENT Mnangagwa has underscored the importance of budget literacy among councillors, saying a sound understanding of financial planning is critical to the nation’s development agenda.

Speaking at the launch of the Minimum Service Delivery Standards Framework and the Urban State Land Management Policy, the President said budgeting plays a fundamental role in the effective regulation and utilisation of resources, even at household level.

“Budgets are designed to regulate, manage and structure resources,” he said.

“Even at household level there are budgets, even though some are silent.”

The Head of State and Government called on local authorities to devise innovative and robust funding models that can mobilise resources without placing undue burden on ratepayers.

“Money funds ideas, money does not create ideas,” he told councillors, urging them to move away from a dependency mindset and focus on sustainable, home-grown financial strategies.

President Mnangagwa’s remarks come at a time when Government is intensifying efforts to enhance service delivery standards and promote prudent resource management across local authorities.

President Mnangagwa mulls action against councils lagging on audited accounts

President Mnangagwa has expressed concern over local authorities that are failing to produce up-to-date audited financial statements, warning that decisive action may soon be taken to enforce accountability and transparency.

Speaking during the launch of the Minimum Service Delivery Standards Framework and the Urban State Land Management Policy here in Bulawayo, the President said he is contemplating two possible courses of action to address the persistent non-compliance by some councils.

“Am thinking of ways of dealing with local authorities that are lagging behind on their audited financial statements.

“Should they pull up their socks or we fire them? What should we do?” he asked the gathering.

The President’s remarks signal growing frustration within Government over financial indiscipline and the lack of transparency in some local authorities — challenges that continue to undermine service delivery and development.

Turning to staff welfare and recruitment practices, President Mnangagwa emphasised the need for fairness, meritocracy and accountability in public sector employment.

“As you employ, please practise openness [and] prudence. No to nepotism. One should be employed on qualifications,” he said.

He further urged councils to ensure workers are treated with dignity and receive fair compensation.

The President’s call comes amid Government’s broader drive to professionalise public service delivery and restore public confidence in local governance structures.

President Mnangagwa has officially launched the Minimum Service Delivery Standards Framework and the Urban State Land Management Policy.

He launched the policy blueprints at the 4th edition of the All Local Authorities Indaba held under the theme “Benchmaking service delivery towards attainment of Vision 2030”.

The ceremony was attended by Vice President Kembo Mohadi, several government ministers and more than 3000 councillors drawn from all 92 local authorities.

 

IN a light-hearted moment in front of more than 3000 people, Deputy Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Albert Mavunga, received a memorable birthday gift from President Mnangagwa, a gesture that left the room abuzz with cheer.

Deputy Minister Mavunga turns 40 today.

Giving closing remarks at the launch of the Minimum Service Delivery Standards Framework and the Urban State Land Management Policy blueprints in Harare, attended by over 3000 delegates, Deputy Minister Mavunga said it was his birthday.

“Your Excellency, my father is a councillor, so at home I am his son, but here I am his boss,” he said to laughter and applause. “ “40 years ago I was born at Mpilo Central Hospital.”

After delivering his remarks, Deputy Minister Mavunga walked over to President Mnangagwa and knelt before him in a respectful gesture.

The two briefly exchanged pleasantries, after which the President handed him a bundle of cash as a birthday present.

In an interview afterwards, Deputy Minister Mavunga was visibly elated.

“I felt honoured and humbled. I will forever cherish the moment. It’s not everyone who gets a birthday present from the Head of State on their actual birthday,” he said.
“President Mnangagwa is a father figure.”

The gesture brought a cheerful close to an otherwise policy-focused event, highlighting the President’s warm and personable side.