Story by ZBC Reporter
PRESIDENT Emmerson Mnangagwa has rallied ministers of state for provincial affairs and devolution to play a leading role in the implementation of the inclusive development agenda being spearheaded by the Second Republic.
The President said this when he met Ministers of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution at State House in Harare this Wednesday.
“You will recall that at the commencement of the Second Republic, I declared an end to the then status quo, where one province was ‘bambazonke’. This in turn ushered in an era of equalised development towards a prosperous upper middle-income economy. The main focus remains centred at the grassroots level, particularly in our provinces and rural areas,” he said.
“This meeting being the first such gathering since our last 2023 Harmonised General Elections, allows us to take stock of the progress made under the Devolution and Decentralisation Policy, which is a critical cog of the Second Republic. To this end, the policy continues to promote inclusive and equal development as well as accountable and participatory governance for sustainable socio-economic development that leaves no one and no place behind.
“In this regard, one of the primary tasks of the governmental leadership, including you, our Ministers of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, is to focus on improving our people’s living standards and achieving shared prosperity. We must be unrelenting in attending to all challenges and also take the requisite risks as we overcome the obstacles by implementing solutions that benefit our people. Hesitation, the dragging of feet, and fence-sitting are not acceptable dispositions under my Administration.
“As Ministers of Provincial Affairs, you must fully play your part to advance the industrialisation and modernisation of our communities, districts and provinces.”
The President called on the ministers to lead in people-centred development projects.
“You should lead from the front in championing the implementation of people-centred development projects in a coherent manner, leaving no one and no place behind. You are assured of the support of the Central Government in all your endeavors.”
The inaugural interface was also attended by Vice President General (Retired) Dr Constantino Chiwenga, Chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet, Dr Martin Rushwaya, Deputy Chief Secretaries and other senior government officials.
