Story by Tamuka Charakupa

THE United Nations has been impressed by the Second Republic’s transformative devolution policy after touring several devolution-funded projects in Chimanimani district this Friday.

The UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator, Mr Edward Kallon was in Chimanimani this Friday where he visited the devolution-funded Hot Springs Clinic and Nechikware Youth Project.

Mr Kallon was impressed by the way the devolution fund has transformed local communities.

“This has been a very important visit for me. It has enabled me to have a feel of the devolution-funded projects which was a clinic which I just came from and now I am here looking at the project that is being implemented by the youth. I was so impressed when one of the members spoke on how this has prevented them from abusing drugs,” he said.

The UN is ready to partner with and complement the government to ensure the sustainability of the devolution projects.

“I will go and discuss what I have seen with my United Nations colleagues and also allow them to complement these activities of the government especially the devolution funds to ensure that the investments are sustained and that they reach a large number of people,” he added.

Manicaland Director of Economic Affairs and Investment Promotion in the Office of the President and Cabinet, Mr Munyaradzi Rubaya reiterated the government’s commitment towards transforming people’s lives.

“As a government, our priority is to alleviate poverty among our people and I am impressed by this youth initiative which is striving. This speaks to our vision of inclusivity and economic participation by all age groups. Devolution on the other hand is giving our people the opportunity to implement projects that are most important to them addressing their priority needs” he said.

Upon inception, the Second Republic implemented the devolution policy to ensure the development of communities through the construction of critical infrastructure including schools, clinics, roads and bridges, among others.