NGOs urged to ensure success of NDS2

BULILIMA Constituency legislator Cde Dingumuzi Phuti has challenged non-governmental organisations (NGOs) operating in Bulilima District to remain focused and scale up development projects that will contribute to the success of the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2).

Cde Phuti made the remarks during an inaugural meeting with NGO representatives held at the Bulilima Rural District Council (RDC) boardroom on Monday morning.

The meeting, chaired by Bulilima District Development Coordinator (DDC) Mr Onesimo Zogara, was aimed at sensitising NGOs on operational procedures within the district. Also in attendance were Bulilima RDC chief executive officer Mr Billiati Mulauzi, council chairperson Clr Land Ndebele, vice chairperson Clr Godfrey Moyo and other RDC officials.

Cde Phuti said NDS2 is expected to consolidate gains made under NDS1 and accelerate Zimbabwe’s journey towards Vision 2030. He noted that 10 broad national priorities have been identified under NDS2 to drive development across all sectors.

These include macro-economic stability and financial sector deepening; inclusive economic growth and structural transformation; infrastructure development and housing; agriculture, food security, climate resilience and environmental protection; science, technology, innovation, digitalisation and human capital development; job creation, youth development, the creative industry and culture; and social development, gender and social protection.

Other priorities are regional development and inclusivity through devolution and decentralisation; image building, international relations and trade; and good governance, institution building, peace and security.

Cde Phuti said NDS2 signifies the Second Republic’s resolve to transition towards a prosperous and empowered upper middle-income society as enshrined in Vision 2030, hence the need for NGOs to play their part.

“The purpose of this meeting is to map way forward on operating within Bulilima as we push to have life changing developmental projects in the area. As NGO’s l implore you to work hand in hand with me so as to make sure that NDS2 is a success in our district.

“As you operate in Bulilima District, l urge all of you not to shy away from the main task of why you are here. Desist from engaging in political agendas as that is not your mandate,” said Cde Phuti.

Mr Zogara said NGOs should engage the RDC before rolling out projects to ensure they address the needs of local communities.

“As Government we have structures we have from village level to ward level where each of them have their plans on needs thus as NGO’s, when you come to the district you should first start at the RDC offices so you can be wary of such needs.

“You should not impose by having a top to down approach but it should be a bottom to up approach,” said Mr Zogara.

Follow on X: @mthabisi_mthire