Story by Mercy Bofu

MASVINGO residents have applauded the government for ensuring improved service delivery through the devolution programme and Belarus facility after the commissioning of capital equipment for service delivery.
Funds released by the central government to local authorities through various programmes, including devolution, continue to impact positively on communities, with Masvingo residents being the latest to benefit after the local authority received fire tenders, among other equipment.

Residents are looking forward to improved service delivery.

“The government led by President Emmerson Mnangagwa continues to ensure local authorities deliver their mandate through assisting them with funds. We are looking forward to improved collection of cabbage and waste,” said one of the residents.

Another added, “As you have seen today new fire trucks were commissioned and this means they are now able to control fire outbreaks and as residents, we are happy with the delivery.”

The government remains committed to improving service delivery, with local authorities being urged to prioritise projects that improve people’s lives.

Masvingo Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Ezra Chadzamira said, “Masvingo City Council is fulfilling the government’s directive of prioritising service delivery. We want to thank President Emmerson Mnangagwa for facilitating the Belarus fire tenders equipment deal and the devolution programme. These programmes have made it easier for Masvingo City to acquire capital equipment we are commissioning today.”

The local authority is grateful to the government for initiating various facilities which are enhancing service delivery in Masvingo town.

“We thank the government for the funds and I can reveal that these 3 fire tenders were acquired through the Belarus Zimbabwe facility, 2 tippers from devolution and Zinara funds and all other equipment are from our internal funds,” said Masvingo Town Clerk, Engineer Edward Mukaratirwa.

The devolution programme has seen Masvingo City Council embarking on various projects, including the construction of Rujeko Secondary School, Runyararo Northwest Medical Centre and the upgrading of Mucheke Trunk Sewer line, among others.