Online Reporter
Nqobile Tshili, [email protected]
MATABELELAND North Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister Richard Moyo has issued a stern warning to local authorities in the province that are reportedly frustrating investors, despite the Government’s extensive efforts to attract both foreign and local investment.
Speaking during an interface with local authorities in Bulawayo yesterday, Minister Moyo expressed his disappointment over the persistent challenges investors face when dealing with some councils.
He emphasised that local authorities play a crucial role in achieving Vision 2030, which seeks to transform Zimbabwe into an upper-middle-income economy.
However, Minister Moyo noted that some councils were working against this goal by creating bureaucratic obstacles for potential investors.
“We continue to receive endless complaints from investors we direct to your offices. Many of you travel with us to foreign countries as we seek investment, but when those investors return, they are met with unnecessary delays and frustrations, which is unacceptable,” said Minister Moyo.
He further stated that such behaviour contradicted President Mnangagwa’s open-door policy, which his office has also embraced.
“The Office of the President, my office, and the Permanent Secretary’s office all have an open-door policy. So, why are some of your offices almost impossible to access? Our primary mandate is to serve the people, and I will not tolerate actions that sabotage development,” he warned.
Minister Moyo warned that future meetings would expose non-compliant councils.
“This kind of behaviour will no longer be tolerated. In upcoming meetings, we will start naming and shaming local authorities that are failing to facilitate investment. We will also take corrective measures to ensure that our communities receive the development they deserve,” he said.
He also expressed concern that some councils had failed to collect even 50 percent of their projected revenues in the past year, leading to poor service delivery.
Minister Moyo stated that service delivery was being severely compromised because local authorities were failing to collect revenue efficiently. He challenged the councils to develop innovative strategies to improve revenue collection.
The minister also highlighted governance and financial mismanagement issues, warning councils against violating policy guidelines and statutory obligations.
“Some councils are not complying with the laws of the land. Financial reporting and governance are key, and failure to meet these obligations will have serious consequences. As professionals, you understand what is at stake,” he said.
Minister Moyo challenged local authorities to position Matabeleland North as a leading hub for economic transformation, given its vast natural resources, including timber, wildlife, and agriculture.
“We are the face of the province, hence we should make Matabeleland North the heartbeat of economic development and let it shine once again. How many local authorities here are up to date with their audited financial statements and statutory obligations?” he asked.
Minister Moyo urged councils to fully utilise the Economic Affairs and Investment Promotion Office to drive development and attract investment.
“This department was created to ensure that an enabling environment for economic growth, job creation, and social development is created in partnership with all local authorities,” he said.
Minister Moyo stated that the province should focus on economic empowerment programmes, including supporting local businesses, promoting entrepreneurship, and creating jobs for communities.
He urged local authorities to make land available for investment and prioritise infrastructure development in their respective districts.
“Let’s also explore public-private partnerships and corporate social responsibilities from companies in the province, especially on road rehabilitation projects. We can achieve great things and create a brighter future for the people of Matabeleland North Province,” said Minister Moyo.
The minister said he looked forward to engaging with local authorities to explore ways of collaborating to drive development and progress in the province.
He also commended some local authorities for their dedication to improving services and promoting economic growth, which in turn improves the lives of ordinary citizens in communities.
Minister Moyo reminded councils of President Mnangagwa’s directive of “No Compromise on Service Delivery”, urging them to align their operations with national development goals.
“Let us heed the President’s call to action. Every council must be fully committed to ensuring efficient service delivery and driving development to achieve Vision 2030,” he said.
During the meeting, local authorities also presented updates on ongoing projects, highlighting key challenges and opportunities in their respective districts. —@nqotshili
