Online Reporter
Diana Nherera
Herald Reporter
GWERU Mayor Councillor Martin Chivhoko has called on residents, businesses and community leaders to work together in improving service delivery and driving the city’s development, saying progress can only be achieved through collective effort.
Speaking on the importance of civic responsibility, Cllr Chivhoko said service delivery was not solely the responsibility of the local authority but required active participation from all stakeholders.
“Progress stalls when we divide ourselves by suburb, politics or by complaint,” he said.
“But when we stand as one city with one vision, there is no challenge we cannot overcome. I call on all residents, businesses, and community leaders, let us unite.
“Let us put Gweru first. Let us speak well of our city, work for our city and defend our city. A united Gweru attracts investment, creates jobs and delivers services faster.”
He urged residents to put the city’s interests first and work together to create an environment that attracts investment, creates jobs and improves service delivery.
The mayor said residents should regard the city as the council’s property but consider themselves as custodians of the city’s infrastructure and services.
“Gweru is yours. The roads you drive on, the parks your children play in and the water you drink belong to you. If you truly own something, you protect it,” he said
Cllr Chivhoko said taking ownership meant reporting leaking water pipes, discouraging illegal dumping, paying municipal bills and safeguarding public infrastructure.
“When we take ownership, we stop waiting for someone else to fix things. We become part of the solution,” he said.
He also encouraged residents to provide constructive feedback while supporting efforts by council to improve services.
“Criticism is easy, but building is hard. As your mayor, I welcome constructive feedback, but I also ask for your support when we try new things,” he said.
“When we fix a road, celebrate it, when we buy new equipment, appreciate it and when we make mistakes, hold us accountable, but also give us room to improve.”
Cllr Chivhoko said the city was making progress and urged residents to remain actively involved in shaping its future.
“Every single one of you is on the team. Gweru is rising. I see it in your faces, in our cleaner streets and in the growing hope across our communities. But the journey is long and we need all hands on deck,” he said.
