Online Reporter
Patrick Chitumba , Midlands Bureau Chief
All 14 rural and urban local authorities in the Midlands Province have complied with the government directive to develop and submit new master plans.
Last year, the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works directed all 92 local authorities to create master plans.
This initiative was part of a larger “Call to Action” by President Mnangagwa to modernise service delivery by local authorities.
Most local authorities submitted their draft master plans to the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works by the June 30th deadline last year.
After the ministry completed its assessment, the draft master plans were put on public display for 60 days to allow for public feedback and engagement.
Addressing a Press conference on Tuesday, the Minister of State for Midlands Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Owen Ncube, commended the 14 local authorities in the province for meeting the deadline.
“The Government mandated all local authorities to develop master plans by a specific deadline. The goal was to curb the growth of haphazard settlements and ensure organised development.
“I am glad to note that all the local authorities in the Midlands province complied with the Second Republic’s directive, for consideration by the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works,” he said.
Minister Ncube urged the local authorities to make sure that they adhere to the approved master plans to ensure conformity to laid-out rules and regulations.
“I urge them to expeditiously consider applications for stands submitted in the province by churches, persons with disabilities, the business community, low-income earners, and schools to make sure no one and no place is left behind in line with Vision 2030 as envisioned by President Mnangagwa,” he said.
Gweru City Council Mayor Councillor Martin Chivhoko revealed that their master plan was approved in February.
“The master plan outlines a roadmap for sustainable growth and development, building upon achievements since 2021 and preparing for the National Development Strategy (NDS2,” he said.
Clr Chivhoko said the master plan focuses on improving service delivery, infrastructure, and economic growth to enhance residents’ quality of life.
“The plan, with a budget of US$54 million, aims to address critical infrastructure gaps, including constructing new schools and a maternity clinic,” he said.
Master plans are expected to address various issues, including controlling environmental degradation, developing infrastructure, acquiring land for development, improving service delivery, and addressing concerns related to compliance with laws and land management.
The master plans are intended to guide the development of cities and communities, ensuring a more organised and sustainable future.
