Story by Tichaona Kurewa
Local authorities have commended government for availing devolution funds which have become a game changer in local development and advancing the attainment of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
A regional SDGs Localisation and Voluntary Reviews Capacity Building Workshop recently held in Victoria Falls saw parties being implored to localise and integrate development goals into local communities.
It is in this context that local authorities are an essential vehicle in the implementation of various projects to attain the SDGs.
Local authorities are cognisant of this role and testify that the devolution fund is a game changer as it is funding projects such as solarised boreholes, clinics and schools, among others.
Mutasa RDC’s chief executive officer (CEO), Mr. George Bandura said, “The availing of devolution funds, as it does, is the prime financial enablement vehicle that government uses in the attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals.”
“Devolution funds are a funding source which will enable local authorities to implement some of the projects which will support Vision 2030 through the implementation of SDGs. So we must have that oiling in the form of devolution funds to enable local authorities to deliver on their projects,” added Murewa RDC’s CEO Dr Alois Gurajena.
While progress has been made in some areas, many challenges remain, and a guaranteed source of funding is seen as essential to accelerating progress and ensuring no one is left behind.
The world is halfway through the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development Goals.
SDGs seek to resolve poverty, gender inequality, climate resilience and provide quality education, among other objectives.
