Minister Nguluvhe urges Zimra to donate confiscated goods to Plumtree communities

Nqobile Bhebhe in Plumtree

Matabeleland South Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister Albert Nguluvhe has appealed to the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (Zimra) to channel a significant share of confiscated goods intercepted at Plumtree Border Post towards supporting vulnerable communities, including schools, prisons and the elderly.

Speaking during the ongoing International Customs Day commemorations at Plumtree Border Post, Minister Nguluvhe said forfeited items such as blankets and foodstuffs could make a meaningful difference in the lives of less privileged members of the community.

“As your province, we invite you not only to participate in today’s programme but also to experience our culture, our heritage, our cuisine and our livelihood, because development is not only measured in statistics but in relationships, trust and shared purpose,” he said.

Minister Nguluvhe expressed appreciation for Zimra’s work in border communities and encouraged the authority to continue strengthening its operations.

“I want to thank Zimra for the good work you have been doing in our vulnerable towns, and I want you to continue doing a good job.

“Some items which you forfeit here, such as blankets and foodstuffs, can be donated to prisons, boarding schools and the elderly in the community before you take some to Harare,” said Minister Nguluvhe.

He commended Zimra for choosing Plumtree as the host of this year’s national event, describing the move as consistent with the Government’s devolution agenda.

“Allow me to take this opportunity to sincerely commend and thank the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority for heeding the national call for devolution, as demonstrated by their decision to have this important national event hosted here in Plumtree, thus moving away from the traditional metropolitan centres where these events used to be held.

“Hosting this event in Plumtree is a powerful message that national programmes no longer belong to Harare alone, but to every community in Zimbabwe,” he said.

“This is what devolution entails, and it brings institutions closer to the people, thereby ensuring that development continues.”

Minister Nguluvhe said Matabeleland South — also known as the Rainbow Province — is strategically positioned and plays a critical role in Zimbabwe’s regional integration and international trade, being home to several border posts.

The International Customs Day event brought together Government officials, Zimra representatives and other stakeholders, with customs authorities’ role in facilitating trade and safeguarding communities taking centre stage.