Over to you Mayor Coltart, Deputy Mayor Mabuto

Vusumuzi Dube, Zimpapers Elections Desk

ON Monday 11 September, Bulawayo residents got to know their mayor and deputy mayor for the next five years when ward four councillor David Coltart and ward nine councillor, Donaldson Mabuto were elected to the respective positions.

Their election brought to an end a tumultuous week characterised by boardroom battles on who should take up the top-most ceremonial posts in the city. Although it was almost definite that Clr Coltart would take up the role of mayor after being endorsed by the Citizens Coalition for Change leader, Nelson Chamisa, it was the deputy mayor’s position that had seen councillors jostling to gain favour within the opposition party ranks so as to be endorsed by Mr Chamisa.

Ward five councillor, Octavius Dumisani Nkomo was tipped for the post while another front runner who had emerged – Clr Edwin Ndlovu had gained considerable support from councillors and party ranks. However, it was Clr Mabuto who pipped his colleagues and eventually got endorsed as the deputy mayor unopposed.

As they assume their roles, both Clr Coltart and Clr Mabuto face immediate challenges that require attention and strategic planning. 

In both their first addresses after they were elected, the two emphasised the need to work with all stakeholders in the city, focusing on restoring the city’s former pride as being one of the cleanest in the region and also that of being an industrial hub. Clr Coltart spoke at length on the need to weed out corruption within the local authority, noting that his tenure would be characterized by a zero tolerance to corruption approach.

“We are all conscious of the allegations of corruption in our city council. What I want to undertake today as mayor is, I will adopt a zero-tolerance attitude towards corruption. That is directed to all my councillors, each one of you, there will be a zero tolerance approach. It will not be hidden. This also applies to full-time members of council staff.

“One of the things we will do is set up a hotline, manned by an independent person, accessible to all Bulawayo people, so that whistleblowers can phone in and advise us of corruption, or attempted corruption. These will be investigated in a fair manner, because unless we deal with this cancer, we cannot develop our city. So,we are all under notice, I will adopt this approach and I believe I have the full support of councillors,” said the newly elected mayor.

Deputy Mayor Mabuto on the other hand also emphasised the importance of a non-partisan approach, saying all stakeholders must work together for the betterment of the city.

“I reiterate what has been said by the mayor that once one has been appointed to lead, they should do so in a non-partisan manner and that is how we intend to run the city,” he said.

As the two begin their five-year journey at the helm of the local authority, their first speeches in council chambers will remain in the minds of the residents that elected them and will serve as reference point.

However, for Clr Coltart, Clr Mabuto and the rest of the councillors, their work is surely cut out for them and it is essential to explore some of the areas that resident expect them to deliver without failure.

 Rising above partisan politics

To realise the aspirations of Bulawayo, Clr Coltart and Clr Mabuto must rise above partisan politics and prioritise the needs of the city and its residents. Residents believe they should engage in inclusive decision-making processes, collaborate with diverse stakeholders, and prioritise development projects based on merit rather than political affiliation. By pursuing a non-partisan approach, they can build trust, foster unity, and garner support from all sectors of society.

The two have a unique opportunity to bring about positive change and foster development within the city. To truly harness this potential, it is essential for them to work with all stakeholders, irrespective of their political affiliations. By embracing a collaborative and inclusive approach, both Clr Coltart and Clr Mabuto can set the foundation for a prosperous and united Bulawayo.

When political affiliations dominate decision-making processes, it can hinder progress and hinder the effective implementation of development plans. The two leaders are in a position to break this cycle and prioritise the interests of Bulawayo’s residents over political considerations.

In working with stakeholders from all political backgrounds, Clr Coltart and Clr Mabuto can tap into a wealth of experience, knowledge, and expertise. By creating an environment that encourages open dialogue and collaborative decision-making, they can generate innovative solutions to the city’s challenges. 

Inclusivity also ensures that the interests and concerns of all residents are considered, allowing for more balanced and equitable policies and initiatives.

Building partnerships with stakeholders from various sectors – including local businesses, community organisations, civic leaders, and residents – will be crucial for leveraging resources and expertise. 

By working together, these stakeholders can contribute to the development priorities of Bulawayo. Each group brings unique insights and perspectives that, when combined, can create a comprehensive and well-rounded vision for the city’s growth. The development of Bulawayo should not be seen through the lens of political gain or rivalry. Instead, it should be viewed as a collective endeavor that requires the involvement of all stakeholders.

 Water for the residents of Bulawayo

“My major concern is water and if you follow international news you will know of the formation of El Nino in the Pacific Ocean. We were briefed by the engineering department just last week of the great challenge facing Bulawayo because of our shortage of water. We need to plan for this together and if we face a drought this summer, we will face a major crisis. We need to anticipate that by speaking to our water engineers and work out how best we can educate the citizens of Bulawayo,” said Clr Coltart in his first speech as the city’s mayor. 

 

Access to safe and reliable water is a fundamental human right and a basic necessity for a functioning society. Without adequate water supply, the health, hygiene, and overall quality of life of residents are severely affected. 

In Bulawayo, the scarcity and intermittent availability of water have become a persistent problem leading to an array of issues such as reduced sanitation, increased vulnerability to diseases, and a strain on economic activities. Bulawayo has since time immemorial been known for its perennial water challenges. Just this year alone, the entire city has been on a water shedding schedule as the local authority tries to conserve the available water supplies.

Ensuring reliable water supply and effective sanitation systems should be a top priority. The mayor and deputy mayor should collaborate with relevant stakeholders, including water authorities and civic organizations, to address water scarcity and invest in sustainable water infrastructure.

President Mnangagwa and the Second Republic have set the city’s water situation as one of the priorities of the Zanu-PF government through the completion of Lake Gwayi-Shangani and the pipeline to the city. There is thus a need for Clr Coltart and his deputy, together with the recent of council to be in a position to work with government towards the fulfillment of this century-old dream.

Besides the solutions offered by Central Government, all eyes will be on Clr Coltart and Clr Mabuto on how the local authority will work on implementing other short-term projects like the duplication of the Insiza pipeline to help increase the volume of water received by the city’s residents.

By investing time, resources, and expertise into finding long-term solutions, they can address the root causes of the water challenges and improve the lives of Bulawayo’s residents.

One approach that could be considered is investing in water infrastructure development and maintenance. Upgrading and expanding the city’s water treatment plants, pipelines, and storage facilities would increase the capacity to meet the growing demand for water. 

Additionally, integrating new technologies and adopting sustainable practices can help conserve and efficiently manage water resources. Moreover, the councillors should explore alternative water sources that can supplement the city’s supply. This may include capturing and storing rainwater, implementing wastewater treatment and reuse systems, and exploring groundwater resources. Diversifying the water sources will not only enhance resilience to water scarcity but also reduce pressure on existing sources.

Social services, housing and infrastructure development

Housing delivery is one of the 14 national priority areas in the National Development Strategy (NDS1), which seeks to ensure that the country attains an upper middle-class economy in line with Vision 2030.

NDS1 envisions the delivery of 220 000 housing units by 2023 and government is pushing for the use of alternative technologies to fast-track the construction of houses, which as private developers we have also committed to ensuring we contribute towards this milestone.

Access to quality healthcare, education, and affordable housing are essential components of a thriving city. The new leadership should therefore work towards improving and expanding social services to meet the needs of Bulawayo’s residents, particularly the most vulnerable populations.

One of the most pressing challenges facing Bulawayo is the deteriorating state of its infrastructure, including roads, water supply, and waste management systems. The new mayor and deputy mayor must prioritize infrastructure development projects to ensure better service delivery for residents.

Reviving Bulawayo’s infrastructure requires long-term planning and investment. The officials should prioritise road repairs, maintenance of public spaces, and modernisation of public transportation systems to ensure efficient service delivery and enhance the city’s aesthetics.

Economic growth and job creation

Bulawayo has over the years witnessed significant growth at an average rate of five percent. Bulawayo’s contribution to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) has thus increased from 12 percent in 2018 to above 13.4 percent in 2023.  This positive growth trajectory is attributed to key sectors such as food processing, tourism, clothing and textile amongst others. Furthermore, the city’s GDP per capita index has increased from US$3 048 in 2018 to over US$3 500 in 2023.

However, one fact that still remains is the state of the city’s industries. Bulawayo used to carry the revered tag of being the country’s industrial hub but in recent years the industrial area in the city has become a pale shadow of its former self.

Addressing the high levels of unemployment is crucial for the revival of Bulawayo. Clr Coltart and Clr Mabuto should focus on attracting investment, supporting local businesses, and creating an environment conducive to job creation and economic growth. Promoting access to quality education and skills development opportunities is crucial for empowering the city’s residents. The new leadership should collaborate with educational institutions and vocational training centers to enhance educational outcomes and equip individuals with the skills needed for employment and entrepreneurship.

 Environmental sustainability

As the new Bulawayo council takes charge, it is crucial that environmental sustainability becomes a top priority. With the growing threats of climate change and environmental degradation, it is imperative for local authorities to adopt proactive measures to protect and preserve the natural resources that sustain our city.

Bulawayo’s eco-systems and green spaces need protection and preservation. The mayor and deputy mayor should promote sustainable practices, such as waste management and renewable energy initiatives, to address environmental challenges and ensure a healthier, greener city for future generations.

The effects of climate change, such as extreme weather events and dwindling water resources, are already being felt globally. As Bulawayo faces its own challenges in this regard, the new council must spearhead initiatives to mitigate the impacts of climate change within the city. This includes implementing sustainable energy solutions, managing waste effectively, as well as promoting environmentally conscious practices among businesses and residents.

Bulawayo’s unique ecosystem boasts diverse flora and fauna, contributing to the region’s natural beauty and ecological balance. To maintain this delicate equilibrium, the new council must prioritize the conservation of natural resources. This involves implementing strategies to safeguard wetlands, forests, and parks, as well as carefully managing water sources through sustainable practices such as rainwater harvesting. By embracing renewable energy sources, investing in green technologies, and promoting eco-tourism, the new Bulawayo council can foster job creation and stimulate local economic growth. The promotion of sustainable industries and practices can attract investments and enhance the city’s reputation as an environmentally responsible and forward-thinking community.

The Bulawayo wanted by every Bulawayan

Bulawayo’s recently elected mayor and deputy mayor face significant challenges, but they also have a unique opportunity to revive the city and restore its former glory. By focusing on key service delivery areas such as infrastructure, economic growth, social services, and the environment, they can bring about lasting positive change. Rising above partisan politics will be crucial in fulfilling the aspirations of Bulawayo, fostering unity, and ensuring that the needs and interests of all residents are met.