Online Reporter
Thupeyo Muleya, Beitbridge Bureau
Matabeleland South Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Cde Albert Nguluvhe, has emphasised the importance of involving traditional leaders in development matters, aligning with the Government’s devolution concept.
He made the clarion call while engaging with the Beitbridge stakeholders as part of his outreach programmes he is rolling out across the province.
Minister Nguluvhe highlighted the crucial role traditional leaders play in promoting development and ensuring the effective implementation of Government programmes at the local level.
He said development can only succeed when there is collaboration, teamwork and a shared vision among traditional leaders, development agencies, and the Government and related stakeholders.
“The era of individualism should end, we need to involve everyone as we walk the road to development,” he said.
“The right hand should know what the left hand is holding or doing. We cannot talk of devolution when there is no synchronisation or coordination at the grassroots level with everyone putting their hands on the deck.
“The Government aims to empower local communities and promote participatory governance through devolution and as such traditional leaders are essential in mobilising communities, promoting development, and ensuring the success of government initiatives.”
Cde Nguluvhe stressed the need for increased collaboration between traditional leaders, Government officials, and local communities to drive development and growth.
He said traditional leaders are the custodians of culture and heritage, and that they play a vital role in promoting development in communities.
Involving traditional leaders in development matters, the minister said, can empower local communities and promote ownership of development initiatives.
“You will note that where there is coordination, trust and collaboration between traditional leaders and Government officials there is bound to be effective governance and better service delivery,” said Cde Nguluvhe.
“At the same time I want to urge all development players, community leaders, politicians and other stakeholders that elections are behind us.
“This is not the time to play politics, let us work and develop our villages, district, province and nation. None will come from somewhere and do it for us.”
The engagement meeting was attended by traditional leaders, councillors from the urban and rural councils, border agencies, politicians, youth organisations, non -governmental organisations, and religious leaders among others.
