Story by Tamuka Charakupa
Government has challenged local authorities in Sanyati District to urgently improve service delivery, strengthen accountability and enhance infrastructure development as Zimbabwe intensifies efforts towards attaining Vision 2030.
The call comes amid growing concern from residents and the business community over persistent water shortages, poor sanitation and deteriorating municipal services raised during an engagement meeting held in Kadoma this Monday.
The interactive platform brought together Government officials, residents and local authorities, with community members pressing Kadoma City Council and Sanyati Rural District Council to provide lasting solutions to longstanding service delivery challenges.
“We want the council to tell us the solution they have for us. We have stayed in our locations for over 20 years and during that time, water has never come out of our taps. The council also does not communicate with residents about the challenges it is facing,” said one resident.
Another resident said many households had resorted to alternative water sources due to unreliable municipal supplies.
“Most residents have resorted to sinking boreholes as an alternative source of water because the council has failed to provide permanent solutions,” the resident said.
Responding to the concerns, Kadoma City Council said rehabilitation works targeting ageing water reticulation and sewer infrastructure are underway to improve service delivery.
Mashonaland West Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Marian Chombo said local authorities must prioritise efficient service delivery and uphold accountability standards in line with the country’s development agenda.
“Water provision remains one of the most critical services expected by our communities. I therefore encourage councils to actively seek partnerships and investment opportunities that support water and sanitation development,” she said.
The minister also urged councils to strengthen revenue collection systems, improve financial management and adhere to Government’s zero-tolerance policy on corruption.
Similar stakeholder engagements are expected to be rolled out across other districts in Mashonaland West Province as Government seeks to enhance local governance and service delivery standards.
