Itai Mazire

As the year draws to a close, Honourable Daniel Garwe, Minister of Local Government and Public Works, has emerged as a transformative force in local governance.

Under his stewardship, the ministry has made significant strides in implementing service delivery standards, with the focus now shifting to the ambitious Minimum Service Delivery Standards 2 (MSDS2).

Honourable Garwe said recent developments have addressed key areas of community concern, notably efficient refuse collection and enhanced water services in Harare. “We have worked tirelessly to improve service delivery; our residents deserve reliable and consistent access to essential services.”

A hallmark of Honourable Garwe’s tenure has been fostering collaboration between local authorities, bringing together councillors from the ruling party and the opposition to work in harmony.

“Uniting our local governance structures is crucial. It is about serving our communities collectively, and together we can effectively address the challenges they face,” said Honourable Garwe.

The enhancement of traditional leadership roles has also been a focal point.

“Traditional leaders are vital to our society. By uplifting their roles, we are ensuring that community voices are heard and integrated into our decision-making processes.”

The introduction of the Minimum Service Delivery Standards (MSDS) has set a new precedent, making quality service provision an expectation for residents.

“We are proud of our successful implementation of the first set of delivery standards, and the upcoming MSDS2 will further elevate the quality of life for all citizens,” he said.

In an effort to empower young people and honour veterans of the liberation struggle, the ministry is developing housing stands aimed at creating equitable opportunities. “It is our responsibility to ensure that the youth and veterans have the chance to secure a future through home ownership,” said Honourable Garwe.

He said the importance of private sector participation in enhancing service delivery has played a significant role. “Collaboration with the private sector is essential if we want to bring innovation and efficiency into our local authorities,” said Honourable Garwe.

As 2025 ends, Honourable Garwe’s initiatives reflect a commitment not just to improvement, but to a comprehensive approach to urban management and community welfare.

“Our vision is clear: a united, functioning local government that prioritises every citizen. We are just getting started.”

Harare — One person is feared dead after a Toyota D4D truck plunged into the Mukuvisi River near the Trabablas Interchange today.

The incident occurred during what was reportedly a routine drive, which suddenly turned tragic when the vehicle veered off the road and landed in the river. Emergency services attended the scene, while investigations into the cause of the accident are ongoing.

More details to Follow:

Government has reaffirmed its commitment to orderly urban management and improved service delivery, as it moves to address the challenge of illegal vending in cities.

Speaking during a stakeholder engagement meeting held at the Bulawayo City Council Chambers, Deputy Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Honourable A.T. Mavhunga, said the Government’s approach to vending relocation is aimed at creating safe, dignified and sustainable trading environments, while ensuring uninterrupted service delivery.

The meeting focused on assessing illegal vending sites and inspecting proposed relocation areas, allowing Government to evaluate progress made by local authorities, identify gaps and offer policy guidance in line with existing legislation.

Hon. Mavhunga commended local authorities and stakeholders for their cooperation, stressing that vendor relocation is not an end in itself but a strategy to promote urban order, protect public health and safety, and support sustainable livelihoods.

He acknowledged the critical role played by Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in sustaining livelihoods and driving local economies, noting that they are an important pillar in Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030 of becoming an upper middle-income economy.

However, the Deputy Minister emphasised the need to balance economic activity with orderly urban planning, environmental health and public safety.

“This engagement is guided by the Government’s No Compromise to Service Delivery Blueprint, which demands efficient, consistent and uninterrupted service delivery by local authorities,” he said.

Hon. Mavhunga noted that illegal vending in undesignated areas often disrupts refuse collection, sanitation services and access to public infrastructure, creating challenges for both councils and traders.

He reminded local authorities that their actions are grounded in the Urban Councils Act [Chapter 29:15], which empowers councils to regulate land use, designate vending sites and enforce compliance with by-laws in a lawful and transparent manner. He also highlighted the need for compliance with Minimum Service Delivery Standards to ensure trading spaces are safe, clean and sustainable.

The Deputy Minister praised Bulawayo City Council for accommodating 4,488 traders in the Central Business District and 4,691 in suburban areas, describing the effort as commendable. However, he expressed concern over the more than 2,000 unregulated traders still operating in the CBD, which he said contributes to congestion and strains city services.

He further revealed that of the 11,047 planned vending bays in suburban areas, only 4,691 are currently occupied, leaving over 6,300 bays unused.

Calling for a collaborative approach guided by the principles of devolution and decentralisation, Hon. Mavhunga urged the Bulawayo City Council to ring-fence funds for the development and upgrading of MSME workspaces.

“This should be viewed not as an expense, but as an investment in the city’s economic future and social stability,” he said.

He encouraged traders to operate from designated sites, assuring them that regulation is meant to protect their safety and support legitimate, long-term business growth.

In his closing remarks, the Deputy Minister outlined a vision of an organised and decentralised economy, with vibrant suburban markets, an orderly Central Business District and decent trading spaces for all MSME operators.

“This is a shared journey,” he said. “Government, local authorities and traders must each play their part in building resilient urban economies that promote dignity, order and prosperity.”