Online Reporter
Ray Bande
Senior Reporter
THE Ministry of Local Government and Public Works has introduced strict performance-based measures and a new digital scoring platform, revealing that councils failed to meet service delivery targets.
Based on President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s Call to Action, the feedback session exposed widespread shortfalls in water provision, waste management and infrastructure maintenance across urban and rural authorities countrywide, and Manicaland in particular.
The digital platform rates councils quarterly on governance, finance and service delivery to enforce accountability among mayors, town clerks, chairmen and chief executive officers.
Poor performers face sanctions, while top-ranked authorities receive recognition and support to improve efficiency and restore public confidence in local government.
Despite this, Chipinge Town Council attained a pass rating of FOUR in the 2025 Local Authority Performance Assessment.
While this reflects progress in several areas, service delivery gaps remain some areas.
The Manica Post is serialising turnaround efforts by local authorities in Manicaland, and this week, with input from Chipinge Town Council public relations officer, Mr Fungayi Mutapati, we examine the council’s initiatives to improve service delivery.
Roads
In 2025, the council procured a tipper truck and a TLB as part of its strategy to undertake most road maintenance and construction in-house, reducing operational costs and improving service delivery. During the same period, the council completed 1,3km of road surfacing from Dzonzayi to Gaza E Shopping Centre, including signage and drainage infrastructure.
Council also revamped the TM drainage system, resolving the long-standing flooding at TM Supermarket where rainwater previously inundated the premises during the rainy season. Gully reclamation works were undertaken across all wards to improve road accessibility, and two plant operators were recruited to enhance operational efficiency and accelerate implementation.
As part of its 2026 turnaround strategy, the council plans to procure an additional tipper truck and a motorised bowser to further strengthen in-house capacity. This approach is expected to generate significant savings compared to outsourcing. The procurement process is already underway, and the council also plans to undertake a further 1km of road surfacing to improve accessibility and trafficability.
Water
There was a time when Chipinge households enjoyed 24/7 access to safe drinking water.
However, the council was previously producing 4,5 million litres per day against a demand of nine million litres, resulting in significant supply challenges. Through strategic investment and infrastructure upgrades, the council has increased production to 10 million litres per day. This was achieved by procuring and installing three additional pumps and constructing a 500mm diameter pipeline parallel to the existing 300mm line. The developments have improved efficiency and reliability, and the council now operates two pump houses interchangeably to ensure continuous production and operational flexibility. Boreholes supplement supply from the Bangazani Water Treatment Plant, further strengthening water security. Going forward, the council’s priority is improving the distribution network so increased production reaches every household. Key focus areas include replacing ageing pipes that have exceeded their design life and managing non-revenue water.
Solid waste management
The council has improved refuse collection through the installation of public bins and the procurement of two tractors to complement the existing fleet. This has increased coverage and efficiency across residential, commercial and public spaces, reducing delays and keeping the town cleaner. To strengthen services further, the council plans to procure an additional refuse compactor in 2026. The process is underway, and the compactor is expected to increase collection efficiency, improve waste handling and recycling capacity, and support efforts to maintain a cleaner, healthier environment.
Public safety and emergency services
Chipinge Town Council has strengthened emergency response and public safety through several interventions. Under a Government-assisted procurement programme, it received two fire tenders, greatly enhancing rapid response to fires and other emergencies. An ambulance was also procured to improve emergency medical services and ensure timely assistance. Going forward, the council plans to further reduce response times through installation of public lighting in some areas to improve security and visibility. Lighting has already been installed at Gaza Stadium.
Establishment of a temporary clinic in St Kelvin to improve access to primary healthcare and enable quicker medical intervention.
Establishment of a police post in St Kelvin to strengthen law enforcement presence and improve community safety.
Recreational facilities rehabilitation and urban greening
The council is prioritising the revival of recreational facilities, with the 2026 refurbishment of Gaza Stadium being a key focus. The facility had deteriorated and could no longer serve the community effectively.
Since works began, progress has been significant, and the stadium hosted the Manicaland Provincial Independence Day celebrations. Refurbishment continues, with lawn being planted to improve the playing surface.
Historically a vibrant sporting hub that nurtured talent such as Lovemore Maphuya and Eddie Dube, Gaza Stadium is being restored as a centre for sports development, recreation and community engagement.
Alongside this, the council is advancing urban greening and beautification. Landscaping works are underway along Moodie Street to enhance the town’s appeal and contribute to a cleaner, greener Chipinge.
However, it remains to be seen whether the council can reinstate sporting infrastructure lost to demand for residential and business space, such as the golf course and Gaza Swimming Pool.
Revenue collection and sustainability of services
The council acknowledges and appreciates ratepayers who honour their obligations through timely payment of rates and service charges. Their contributions enable essential services and infrastructure projects. Nonetheless, revenue collection must improve to meet operational needs, maintain infrastructure and deliver planned projects. Stronger collection will enhance the capacity to provide quality, sustainable services. To promote long-term sustainability, particularly in Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH), the council is exploring partnerships with development agencies, investors and the private sector. These aim to commercialise WASH projects and improve cost recovery, efficiency and investment in critical infrastructure. Through improved revenue mobilisation and strategic partnerships, the council seeks to build a financially sustainable institution capable of reliable service delivery and an improved quality of life. It therefore urges residents and stakeholders to continue supporting development by meeting payment obligations and collaborating on sustainable growth initiatives.
Manicaland Youth Housing Scheme
Chipinge Town Council is progressing with the Manicaland Youth Housing Scheme, a mixed development of 3 600 stands to address housing demand and promote orderly urban growth. Under the servicing programme, road opening has been completed, providing access and laying the foundation for essential services. The council is now focusing on a water reticulation network to ensure a reliable supply for future residents. A water storage tank is also out to tender. Once complete, it will support distribution and ensure adequate capacity for the growing community. For a promising local authority, suffice to say, development is indeed work in progress for Chipinge Town Council!
Ends
