Online Reporter
Peter Matika, [email protected]
NEWLY appointed Minister of State for Matabeleland South Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Albert Nguluvhe, has outlined his plans for advancing the nationwide development agenda in his province.
Minister Nguluvhe, in an exclusive interview on Friday, emphasised his intention to adopt an inclusive approach, seeking input from citizens rather than imposing top-down strategies.
“Our province has so much potential, and I believe the best way to unlock it is to work hand-in-hand with our communities,” he said.
While reflecting on the diverse needs and aspirations of the people he now represents, Minister Nguluvhe said he wants to ensure that every voice is heard and that the development agenda truly reflects the priorities of the people of Matabeleland South.
He said his approach will mark a refreshing shift in governance, as he aims to foster a sense of ownership among the residents.
Minister Nguluvhe said by actively engaging with citizens, he hopes to create tailor-made strategies that resonate with local contexts.
“We need to understand what matters most to our communities, whether it’s access to clean water, better healthcare, or improved infrastructure,” Minister Nguluvhe said.
In his plans, Minister Nguluvhe highlighted several key areas of focus, including establishing regular community forums where citizens can share their insights and concerns.
“These forums will be a platform for open dialogue. We must create a culture of collaboration, where everyone feels they can contribute to the conversation about our future,” he said.
“That way, we will fulfil the Vision of 2030.”
Minister Nguluvhe said another vital aspect of his agenda is the emphasis on youth involvement. He expressed his desire to empower young people, recognising their potential as catalysts for change.
“Our youth are the leaders of tomorrow. By investing in their ideas and initiatives, we can build a brighter future for all,” he said.
Minister Nguluvhe said he was aware of the challenges ahead but pledged to serve the people of Matabeleland South with diligence.
“There is so much potential in the province and together, we can pave the way for sustainable development that lifts everyone,” said Minister Nguluvhe, stating that the province’s possibilities are boundless.
Born on 11 November 1958 in Chapongwe Village, Beitbridge District, in a family of 14, Minister Nguluvhe was appointed minister to his new portfolio by President Mnangagwa last month.
“I grew up looking after my father’s cattle. He was a rich man in terms of livestock. I did my primary education at Chapongwe School and did my Grade Six and Seven at Beitbridge Mission School, which was between 1974 and 1975. I then did my Secondary at Manama High School,” said Cde Nguluvhe.
He said he was among the students who went through training in Zambia during the liberation struggle alongside the late Foreign Affairs and International Trade Minister, Lieutenant General Dr Sibusiso Moyo (Retired).
“Our group was well-disciplined because we were educated,” said MinisterNguluvhe.
Thereafter Minister Nguluvhe said he travelled to Bulgaria, where he studied specialist security in close protection and intelligence.
Minister Nguluvhe said upon his return to Zambia, his life became one of disciplined service to the late Vice-President Joshua Nkomo.
“I travelled the world with him, and it is of interest to know I attended the Lancaster House Conference. And when the agreement was about to be signed, myself and four other people were assigned to leave London for Lusaka to make arrangements for his return,” said Minister Nguluvhe.
He said at independence, he joined the Central Intelligence Organisation and rose through the ranks to director of national security.
“I was responsible for the security of the leadership of the country. In 2018, I reached my retirement age and decided to get into politics. I became a Member of Parliament for Beitbridge East constituency,” said Minister Nguluvhe.
He said today, he still serves as Beitbridge East MP, chairperson of the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Defence, Home Affairs, War Veterans and Security, and Minister of State for Matabeleland South Provincial Affairs and Devolution.
“In my first term as an MP, I was in the committee for Information and Broadcasting Services, and one of the major roles I played there was to bring about the existence of community radio stations,” said the minister.
“We managed to secure 10 licences for stations in Beitbridge and other constituencies.”
He said he seeks to get more youths involved in politics.
“Apart from politics and work, I am a farmer, and I specialise in livestock farming. I have cattle and Boer goats. On the other hand, I am also a philanthropist. I have built two clinics, and I pay school fees for several children,” Minister Nguluvhe said.
He said he also plays a role in establishing self-sustainable projects, such as poultry farming, where he provides chickens to groups. In his development agenda, Minister Nguluvhe said people must be actively involved to ensure that all infrastructure is maintained.
“If we have youths involved in these projects, we will go a long way in safeguarding our infrastructure and building a sense of pride,” said Minister Nguluvhe.
