UN commends govt Devolution Agenda
Story by Tambaoga Gora
THE government has commissioned the Kariba People’s Market built through devolution funds.
The construction of the new market stalls has created a smart face for the resort town of Kariba and serves as a local economic development initiative by providing a conducive business environment for small to medium enterprises.
“The new market is now secured with a fence and razor wire we no longer have problems with animals like baboons and monkeys,” said one of the beneficiaries.
Another added, “We used to operate exposed to extreme weather conditions but now we have sheds to protect us from the sun or rain.”
“Some of the SMEs were subjected to inhumane treatment by drunkards who would be passing by the open site where we used to operate from, none the less we are now operating from a safe place,” another beneficiary added.
The government’s devolution agenda has enticed the United Nations.
“On behalf of the United Nations in Zimbabwe, I would like to extend our gratitude to all those involved in making these projects a reality, and we commend the government of Zimbabwe for its unwavering commitment to Devolution,” said UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator, His Excellence Edward Kallon.
The Nyamhunga people’s market comes with several benefits for entrepreneurs and councils.
Kariba Municipality Town Clerk, Mr Richard Kamhonde said, “The two projects will improve the valuation roll of the Council and revenue while also providing safety nets against poverty and we are happy that government is coming in with the assistance in the provision of housing.”
Mashonaland West Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Marian Chombo said, “It is us who can improve the livelihood of our society let me thank the Municipality of Kariba for fostering the Devolution mantra and putting public resources to a fruitful cause this state of the art structure is among the best if not the best in the whole country, the model will be the role model for some who want to copy the good practice.”
The Devolution agenda has proved to be critical in various communities, with councils managing to acquire capital machinery and improve in offering social services and sprucing up infrastructure.
