Story by Mercy Bofu-Matinha
FROM new clinics that have brought health care closer to villagers, to boreholes that provide clean water and schools that give children a better learning environment, the people of Gutu say the devolution programme has changed their lives for the better.
The latest commissioning of 51 motorcycles for councillors and a fire tender truck for Gutu Rural District Council has added to the list of projects that the community says are proof that the government’s promise to leave no one and no place behind is bearing fruit.
“Today’s programme is very important for us, as it has capacitated our councillors such that they can reach all our areas and ensure equal development,” a beneficiary said.
“We want to appreciate what the government is doing in our communities. In our area of Mushayavanhu, a clinic is currently under construction, and I am aware that in Muchekayaora, another clinic was recently commissioned. These are very important for us in terms of ensuring access to healthcare services,” another beneficiary added.
Through devolution funds, Gutu Rural District Council has so far established nine clinics and acquired capital equipment for road maintenance, among many developments.
“As a Council, through the devolution funds, we have managed to partake in many projects, with some of them being funded by council funds. For devolution, we have managed to construct nine clinics, boreholes, and, in terms of road maintenance, we acquired a motorised grader and a tipper truck loader. We also constructed a staff house and a classroom block at our two schools in the district,” Gutu Rural District Council, Chief Executive Officer, Mr Alexander Mutembwa noted.
The government called upon local authorities to complete stalled projects so that communities can fully benefit.
“The assets we are commissioning today are crucial in enhancing service delivery, promoting economic growth, and improving the quality of life for our people. These investments align perfectly with our government’s commitment to devolution, decentralisation, and community empowerment. By equipping our local authorities with the necessary infrastructure, we are ensuring that they can effectively deliver services to our people. Local authorities must prioritise stalled projects and ensure they start serving communities,” Deputy Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Honourable Albert Mavhunga said.
“Today, we are commissioning 51 motorcycles for councillors and a fire tender truck for the Gutu Rural District Council. This is just a part of projects funded under the devolution programme and through council funds. However, it shows that the government is committed to ensuring that the decentralisation and devolution programme is not only policy on paper but is matched with tangible support,” Masvingo Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Ezra Chadzamira noted.
The devolution programme has transformed communities across the country with government support.
