malvernmugadzikwa
Sunday Mail Reporter
THE Government is finalising assessing applications for town status by the Ruwa and Epworth local boards.
The two local boards rely on Harare City Council for essential services such as bulk water provision.
Following the applications, which were made two years ago, the Government sent assessment teams to evaluate their eligibility for town status.
The findings will determine whether Ruwa and Epworth meet the set criteria.
The final decision rests with Parliament, with approval granted by the President.
In an interview with The Sunday Mail, Local Government and Public Works Minister Daniel Garwe confirmed the ongoing process.
“Yes, both local authorities requested to be upgraded to town councils and assessments were done,” he said.
“Certain observations were made, and the local authorities were working on the observations. Thereafter, a follow-up assessment will be conducted and the determination will be made.
“For Epworth, the local board has to be afforded time and assistance to deal with issues that militate against their town status bid.
“The councils must also have valuation rolls and development master plans.”
Ruwa Local Board public relations and communications officer Ms Josephine Ruwuyu Mupakati said the board was eagerly waiting for finalisation of the process. In 2022, council submitted all the documentation required by the commission that was appointed to consider our application for town status,” she said.
“The commission also heard submissions from various stakeholders on the same as part of the process. We await the results through the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works.”
Being granted town status offers local authorities greater autonomy in running their affairs.
Towns often have their own local council or board with the authority to make decisions on local issues like budgeting for services such as sanitation, road maintenance and some aspects of public safety.
Upgrading to town status can also potentially open doors for increased Government funding or eligibility for grants that would not otherwise be available to a local board that relies on another city council.
Additionally, being granted town status can help attract investment for development and infrastructure upgrades.
Online Reporter