Min. Garwe Commissions Chikomba’s New Service Delivery Fleet

Itai Mazire

Local Government and Public Works Minister Daniel Garwe has commissioned a new fleet of service delivery equipment for Chikomba Rural District Council, comprising a 20,000-litre water bowser, a fire tender, and a refuse compactor, in a move set to transform waste management, water supply, and emergency response across the district.

Speaking at the commissioning ceremony at Chivhu Town Council offices, Hon. Garwe said the unveiling of the equipment’s aligns with national development goals.

“This development is in line with the National Development Strategy 2 and Vision 2030, which prioritises improved service delivery and infrastructure modernisation across all communities.
“We are leaving no place and no one behind,” said Hon.Garwe.

The equipment forms part of a broader government initiative to capacitate local authorities struggling with service delivery challenges.

Minister Garwe urged council officials to maintain the fleet adequately and ensure it benefits all communities equitably.

“This equipment must serve the people of Chikomba diligently. There should be no compromise on quality and no excuses for poor service delivery going forward,” said Hon. Garwe.

Chikomba RDC has previously demonstrated commitment to infrastructure development, having procured a borehole drilling rig using devolution funds and a grader from council coffers in 2023.

The district, strategically located along the Harare-Masvingo-Beitbridge highway, serves as a gateway to South Africa, Botswana, Mozambique, and Zambia, making efficient service delivery critical for the transit town of Chivhu.

Council CEO Mr Bullen Chiwara has consistently prioritised service delivery improvements, with the district previously completing Mpatsi Clinic using devolution funds and implementing various developmental projects aligned with President Mnangagwa’s “Call to Action, No Compromise to Service Delivery” blueprint.

The new fleet will be managed by the Local Authorities Technical Support Unit (LATSU), which allows struggling local authorities to hire equipment at nominal fees, ensuring maintenance and sustainability.

This initiative responds to what Minister Garwe previously described as a “state of disaster” in solid waste management in some areas, which prompted Operation Chenesa Harare in January last year.

Government has urged councils to embrace public-private partnerships and maintain momentum towards Vision 2030.