Online Reporter
Mashonaland West Bureau Chief
Preparations for the 23rd Zanu PF Annual National People’s Conference have reached 85 percent completion, with Chinhoyi set to inherit a lasting legacy of upgraded water infrastructure, resurfaced roads and modernised facilities at Chinhoyi University of Technology (CUT) long after delegates have returned home.
Joint Conference Coordinating Committee chairperson Cde Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri said about US$3 million has been raised so far, with several transformational projects either under way or about to begin, as the province works to match the standard set by Manicaland last year.
“The work being done and the progress achieved so far are impressive, and I would put completion at 85 percent, with work currently under way to ensure that the remaining 15 percent is completed ahead of the conference,” she said.
Cde Muchinguri-Kashiri led a fortnightly assessment tour of the conference venue, joined by Politburo members Cdes Machacha, the National Political Commissar, Tendai Chirau and Douglas Mahiya, as well as Central Committee members Cde Marian Chombo, the Minister of State for Mashonaland West Provincial Affairs and Devolution, and provincial chairperson Cde Mary Mliswa-Chikoka.
Provincial chairpersons Cdes Jabulani Sibanda (Bulawayo), Daniel Garwe (Mashonaland East) and Tawanda Mukodza (Manicaland), among others, also attended.
Chinhoyi will host the conference from October 12 to 17, with President Mnangagwa expected to present his report on the implementation of the party’s resolutions.
Cde Muchinguri-Kashiri said committees responsible for legal affairs, transport, catering and accommodation had made significant progress.
“The dining areas need some touch-ups; buses are ready; the conference venue and accommodation facilities are ready or almost ready,” she said.
Cde Muchinguri-Kashiri said the party was determined to leave residents with tangible benefits beyond the conference itself.
“As a party, we add value and leave a legacy for the people of Chinhoyi and Mashonaland West Province,” she said.
At CUT, at least 10 hostels are being refurbished, while grounds, toilets and changing rooms are being upgraded.
Ten boreholes have also been drilled to make the institution self-sufficient in water supply.
The upgrades extend to the town at large. Chinhoyi Municipality currently supplies about 22 megalitres of water, roughly 25 percent of demand, prompting President Mnangagwa to direct that the system be overhauled as a legacy project for the town.
“President Mnangagwa directed that the water supply system be upgraded, and I am pleased to report that a contractor has been identified and work is already under way,” Cde Muchinguri-Kashiri said.
Roadworks are also progressing, with contractors applying primer on sections of the 19-kilometre stretch earmarked for tarring following the completion of base compaction on most of the route.
Minister Chombo said hosting the conference would translate into improved service delivery for the province.
“With major events such as this conference, which we are privileged to host, there are many downstream benefits, and we are delighted,” she said. “Here at CUT, 19 boreholes have been drilled and dormitories upgraded. The business sector is also set to benefit from an influx of political tourists. Businesses should seize this opportunity and upgrade their services.”
Cde Mliswa-Chikoka said the province was encouraged by the scale of the legacy projects.
“We are excited as a province that our party is undertaking numerous projects that will leave a lasting legacy for the people of Mashonaland West and Chinhoyi in particular,” she said.
