Siphakeme .Mnindwa
Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu, [email protected]
VILLAGERS in Sibona area, Gwanda District, Matabeleland South Province, have formed a development committee to spearhead local projects, identify key development gaps and strategise solutions.
The Sibona Development Committee, established in September last year, comprises 17 members representing various groups, including youths, women, men, the elderly and people with disabilities. The initiative aims to ensure inclusive decision-making and sustainable community-driven development.
Committee chairperson Mr Sam Sibanda said the formation of the committee was a grassroots effort driven by the realisation that development should be community-led.
“As a community of Sibona Village, we came together after recognising the need to take charge of our own development. We formed a 17-member committee to ensure that all sections of our community are represented and their needs are considered,” he said.
Since its formation, the committee has embarked on several initiatives, including filling potholes, clearing a dam, and working with local schools to improve infrastructure. Villagers have pooled resources to address immediate challenges and have also engaged development partners for support.
Committee treasurer, Ms Sibongile Sithole said members are divided into smaller groups that take responsibility for specific projects.
“We believe in collective action. Each committee member leads a group of villagers to work on different development activities. So far, we have worked on repairing roads, clearing a dam and transporting river sand to the local school. We dedicate at least two days a week, working for about three hours per session,” she said.
The committee has also prioritised major infrastructure projects, including the rehabilitation of a pre-school, the establishment of a low-cost boarding facility, and the construction of a classroom block at Sibona Secondary School.
To accelerate development, the committee has engaged Zanu-PF Gwanda North shadow MP, Cde Lungisani Ncube, who has since donated 100 bags of cement to Sibona Secondary School and covered fees for 16 learners.
“Cde Ncube has pledged to support the rehabilitation of the school. This is a significant milestone for our community. While we appreciate external assistance, we are committed to mobilising our own resources to further develop our area,” said Ms. Sithole.
Committee secretary, Ms Melissa Vanessa Dube, stressed the importance of transparency and community involvement.
“We hold regular meetings to strategise, consult villagers and ensure that everyone is informed about ongoing projects. Our goal is to foster unity and a shared vision for development,” she said.
Sibona Village head Mr Jaconnia Moyo, commended the community for taking ownership of its development, urging residents to remain united in their efforts.
“It is heartening to see villagers leading their own development agenda. This level of commitment and co-operation will go a long way in transforming our area,” he said.
Online Reporter