Story by Patience Nyagato
THE Government says the engineers are at the core of the country’s industrialisation drive, with responsibilities encompassing spearheading various infrastructure development programmes being implemented by the Second Republic.
The Zimbabwe Institution of Engineers held an awards ceremony in Harare this Friday, where engineers committed themselves to support the country’s industrial revolution.
“Engineering is very important to the development of any nation. We are involved in all infrastructure development in terms of roads, water and housing. All development is bench-marked on engineering and is an essential part of the day to day living. So we are recognising those that have worked hard and achieved in different engineering sectors. Those who are contributing to the development of our nation and agenda 2030,” said Zimbabwe Institution of Engineers president, Engineer Farai Mavhiya Bhiza.
For the government, local engineers have their work cut out in the wake of massive infrastructure development programmes being implemented by the Second Republic.
“In the recent years we have seen the mushrooming of settlements that are not planned. We have now directed our local authorities to draft master plans that speaks to development.
“We need to regularise illegal settlements, create roads, come with designs for sewer in illegal settlements that are already there. The President came up with a title deed programme that is tied to it and this is where you as engineers get in. We need engineers with a business mind so that we develop our country,” said the Minister of Local government, Honourable Daniel Garwe.
The event also saw individuals getting recognition for excelling in various fields and among those honoured is the Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, Dr Anxious Masuka.
“I am humbled to receive this award. I lead an exceedingly good team and this rightfully belong to people in the ministry. This comes at the back of performing as the best performing ministry in the country. Agriculture is at the epicentre of attaining vision 2030,” he said.
Other engineers recognised include energy expert, Engineer Martin Manhuwa who received an Engineering Achievement award.