Online Reporter
Gibson Mhaka, Zimpapers Politics Hub
PLUMTREE District has undergone significant upgrades and renovations in preparation for hosting the Matabeleland South provincial Independence Day celebrations this week.
Outgoing Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Dr Evelyn Ndlovu, has confirmed that preparations are 95 percent complete.
For the first time, the celebrations will be held at Plumtree High School, marking a departure from the traditional venue at Phelandaba Stadium in Gwanda, the provincial capital. Nationally, the 45th Independence Anniversary celebrations will be in Gokwe North District, Midlands Province.
The theme for this year’s commemorations is: Zim@45: Devolve and Develop Together Towards Vision 2030.
Dr Ndlovu said preparations were at an advanced stage with the State Occasions Committee working diligently to ensure the event’s success.
“I can safely say that preparations are now at an advanced stage — 95 percent complete. The State Occasions Committee is working tirelessly towards the success of this event. Stakeholders in Plumtree are enthusiastic about hosting the provincial celebrations. Mobilisation is ongoing, with community sensitisation efforts under way. Radio Bukalanga, among other platforms, is being utilised for awareness campaigns. Six buses have been secured from various schools, in addition to the ten already allocated,” said Dr Ndlovu.
She also outlined logistical arrangements being finalised to ensure the event proceeds smoothly.
“Road maintenance is ongoing, and the restoration of electricity is in progress. Additionally, addressing water supply challenges at the pavilion is a priority, with work under way to ensure water reaches all key points.
Those responsible for transport are working flat out to ensure there is adequate transport to meet demand. Entertainment has been organised and this includes a football match,” she added.
Renovations to the toilets and pavilion at the school grounds are underway to accommodate the expected crowd. Road maintenance works cover the Plumtree-Madlambudzi, Mpandeni, Thekwane and Mphoengs routes, where buses will be ferrying people to the venue.
“The drilling of a borehole is being considered, along with plans to establish a Village Business Unit (VBU),” said Dr Ndlovu.
She said Plumtree High School as the venue for the provincial celebrations, will benefit immensely from upgraded infrastructure.
“These include the drilling and equipping of a borehole to ensure adequate water provision during the celebrations, hay baling to clear the grounds, painting of the pavilion, renovation of ablution facilities, and ongoing road maintenance to improve access to the venue,” said Dr Ndlovu.
